Antibiotic Prescription Rates for Acute Respiratory Tract Infections in US Ambulatory Settings

Abstract

Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant microorganisms are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and substantial economic burden.¹ Antibiotic use creates selective pressure for the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.^2-4 During the past decade, a variety of US initiatives have promoted the judicious use of antibiotics,^5,6 particularly for acute respiratory tract infection (ARTI), which is a common cause of health care encounters and antibiotic prescriptions, especially in young children. In the late 1990s, antibiotic prescription rates in both children and adults decreased,^7-10 but these decreases were initially accompanied by increased prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics.^9-11