ACP Recommends Short-Course Antibiotics for Many Common Infections

The American College of Physicians says 5 days of therapy often is best practice.

Sponsoring Organization: American College of Physicians (ACP)

Background

Nearly one third of prescribed antibiotic courses are longer than necessary, and antibiotic-associated adverse events — allergic reactions, Clostridioides difficile infections, and antimicrobial resistance — occur in ≈20% of patients who receive antimicrobials. ACP experts offer best evidence-based practice advice on optimal duration of antibiotics for common outpatient and inpatient bacterial infections.

Key Recommendations

1. Acute uncomplicated exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by purulent sputum plus increased dyspnea, sputum volume, or both

Common bacterial pathogens: Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrha…

Reviewing Author

Daniel D. Dressler, MD, MSc, MHM, FACP

Disclosures

RoyaltiesMcGraw-Hill; Elsevier

Editorial BoardsMedical Clinics of North America; Caribbean Medical Journal International Advisory Panel (2021–2026)