Learn about updated guidelines for antibiotic use in respiratory infections, aiming to reduce overuse and combat antibiotic resistance, especially for common ailments like colds and bronchitis.
The American College of Physicians (ACP-ASIM) has recently published updated guidelines for the use of antibiotics in treating respiratory infections. These guidelines aim to reduce the overuse of antibiotics, which can lead to antibiotic resistance and make infections harder to treat.
It is worth noting that most upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses. However, approximately 75% of patients with these conditions receive antibiotic prescriptions. Therefore, the American College of Physicians recommends that doctors avoid prescribing antibiotics for common respiratory infections like bronchitis, sinus infections, sore throats, colds, and other upper respiratory illnesses that are likely caused by viruses and would not benefit from antibiotics. It is also important for doctors to inform patients that their condition should improve within a week or two.
Furthermore, the American College of Physicians encourages doctors to consider the potential harm of antibiotic use, aiming to reduce unnecessary prescriptions. These new recommendations are particularly beneficial for individuals with healthy immune systems who are under 65 years of age. They also offer advantages for individuals who do not have conditions that could be worsened by antibiotic use or overall health, such as acute bronchitis often associated with COPD, recurrent tonsillitis, or sinusitis.
antibiotics, respiratory infections, antibiotic resistance, upper respiratory infections, bronchitis, sinus infections, sore throats, colds
