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Amábile-Cuevas CF, Lund-Zaina S. Non-Canonical Aspects of Antibiotics and Antibiotic Resistance. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:565. [PMID: 38927231 PMCID: PMC11200725 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13060565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The understanding of antibiotic resistance, one of the major health threats of our time, is mostly based on dated and incomplete notions, especially in clinical contexts. The "canonical" mechanisms of action and pharmacodynamics of antibiotics, as well as the methods used to assess their activity upon bacteria, have not changed in decades; the same applies to the definition, acquisition, selective pressures, and drivers of resistance. As a consequence, the strategies to improve antibiotic usage and overcome resistance have ultimately failed. This review gathers most of the "non-canonical" notions on antibiotics and resistance: from the alternative mechanisms of action of antibiotics and the limitations of susceptibility testing to the wide variety of selective pressures, lateral gene transfer mechanisms, ubiquity, and societal factors maintaining resistance. Only by having a "big picture" view of the problem can adequate strategies to harness resistance be devised. These strategies must be global, addressing the many aspects that drive the increasing prevalence of resistant bacteria aside from the clinical use of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sofia Lund-Zaina
- Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense, Denmark
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Lee SJ, Lee R, Cho SY, Nho D, Ahn HL, Lee DG. Implementing antimicrobial stewardship: lessons and perspectives from a university-affiliated tertiary hospital in Korea. Korean J Intern Med 2024; 39:399-412. [PMID: 38715230 PMCID: PMC11076883 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2023.504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) can lower antibiotic use, decrease medical expenses, prevent the emergence of resistant bacteria, and enhance treatment for infectious diseases. This study summarizes the stepwise implementation and effects of ASPs in a single university-affiliated tertiary care hospital in Korea; it also presents future directions and challenges in resource-limited settings. At the study hospital, the core elements of the ASP such as leadership commitment, accountability, and operating system were established in 2000, then strengthened by the formation of the Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Team in 2018. The actions of ASPs entail key components including a computerized restrictive antibiotic prescription system, prospective audit, post-prescription review through quantitative and qualitative intervention, and pharmacy-based interventions to optimize antibiotic usage. The AMS Team regularly tracked antibiotic use, the effects of interventions, and the resistance patterns of pathogens in the hospital. The reporting system was enhanced and standardized by participation in the Korea National Antimicrobial Use Analysis System, and educational efforts are ongoing. Stepwise implementation of the ASP and the efforts of the AMS Team have led to a substantial reduction in the overall consumption of antibiotics, particularly regarding injectables, and optimization of antibiotic use. Our experience highlights the importance of leadership, accountability, institution-specific interventions, and the AMS Team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Jin Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Raeseok Lee
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
- Vaccine Bio Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Sung-Yeon Cho
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
- Vaccine Bio Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Dukhee Nho
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
- Vaccine Bio Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Hye Lim Ahn
- Department of Pharmacy, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Dong-Gun Lee
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
- Vaccine Bio Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul,
Korea
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Smith E, Buchan S. Skewed perception of personal behaviour as a contributor to antibiotic resistance and underestimation of the risks. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293186. [PMID: 37917754 PMCID: PMC10621963 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria poses a significant threat to global human health. Countering this threat requires the public to understand the causes of, and risks posed by, antibiotic resistance (AR) to support changing healthcare and societal approaches to antibiotic use. To gauge public knowledge, we designed a questionnaire to assess awareness of causes of AR (both personal and societal) and knowledge of absolute and relative risks posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Our findings reveal that while >90% respondents recognized personal behaviours as limiting AR, few individuals recognized the importance of societal factors e.g. the use of antibiotics in livestock. Furthermore, more respondents named viruses (either by name or as a group) than bacteria as reasons to take antibiotics, indicating lack of understanding. The absolute numbers of current and predicted future deaths attributed to antibiotic-resistant bacteria were under-estimated and respondents were more concerned about climate change and cancer than AR across all age groups and educational backgrounds. Our data reveal that despite heightened public awareness of infection-control measures following the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains a knowledge gap related to contributors and impacts of increasing numbers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Smith
- Department of Life and Environmental Science, Bournemouth University, Poole, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Buchan
- Department of Life and Environmental Science, Bournemouth University, Poole, United Kingdom
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Kanan M, Ramadan M, Haif H, Abdullah B, Mubarak J, Ahmad W, Mari S, Hassan S, Eid R, Hasan M, Qahl M, Assiri A, Sultan M, Alrumaih F, Alenzi A. Empowering Low- and Middle-Income Countries to Combat AMR by Minimal Use of Antibiotics: A Way Forward. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1504. [PMID: 37887205 PMCID: PMC10604829 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12101504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic overuse poses a critical global health concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where access to quality healthcare and effective regulatory frameworks often fall short. This issue necessitates a thorough examination of the factors contributing to antibiotic overuse in LMICs, including weak healthcare infrastructure, limited access to quality services, and deficiencies in diagnostic capabilities. To address these challenges, regulatory frameworks should be implemented to restrict non-prescription sales, and accessible point-of-care diagnostic tools must be emphasized. Furthermore, the establishment of effective stewardship programs, the expanded use of vaccines, and the promotion of health systems, hygiene, and sanitation are all crucial components in combating antibiotic overuse. A comprehensive approach that involves collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, and educators is essential for success. Improving healthcare infrastructure, enhancing access to quality services, and strengthening diagnostic capabilities are paramount. Equally important are education and awareness initiatives to promote responsible antibiotic use, the implementation of regulatory measures, the wider utilization of vaccines, and international cooperation to tackle the challenges of antibiotic overuse in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Kanan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh 12211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maali Ramadan
- Department of Pharmacy, Maternity and Children Hospital in Rafha, Rafha 76312, Saudi Arabia; (M.R.); (H.H.); (B.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Hanan Haif
- Department of Pharmacy, Maternity and Children Hospital in Rafha, Rafha 76312, Saudi Arabia; (M.R.); (H.H.); (B.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Bashayr Abdullah
- Department of Pharmacy, Maternity and Children Hospital in Rafha, Rafha 76312, Saudi Arabia; (M.R.); (H.H.); (B.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Jawaher Mubarak
- Department of Pharmacy, Maternity and Children Hospital in Rafha, Rafha 76312, Saudi Arabia; (M.R.); (H.H.); (B.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Waad Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia; (W.A.); (S.M.)
| | - Shahad Mari
- Department of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia; (W.A.); (S.M.)
| | - Samaher Hassan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jazan College of Pharmacy, Jazan 82726, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Rawan Eid
- Department of Pharmacy, Nahdi Company, Tabuk 47311, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohammed Hasan
- Department of Pharmacy, Armed Forces Hospital Southern Region, Mushait 62562, Saudi Arabia; (M.H.); (A.A.)
| | - Mohammed Qahl
- Department of Pharmacy, Najran Armed Forces Hospital, Najran 66256, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Atheer Assiri
- Department of Pharmacy, Armed Forces Hospital Southern Region, Mushait 62562, Saudi Arabia; (M.H.); (A.A.)
| | | | - Faisal Alrumaih
- Department of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 76313, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Areej Alenzi
- Department of Infection Control and Public Health, Regional Laboratory in Northern Border Region, Arar 73211, Saudi Arabia;
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Martínez JL, Baquero F. What are the missing pieces needed to stop antibiotic resistance? Microb Biotechnol 2023; 16:1900-1923. [PMID: 37417823 PMCID: PMC10527211 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As recognized by several international agencies, antibiotic resistance is nowadays one of the most relevant problems for human health. While this problem was alleviated with the introduction of new antibiotics into the market in the golden age of antimicrobial discovery, nowadays few antibiotics are in the pipeline. Under these circumstances, a deep understanding on the mechanisms of emergence, evolution and transmission of antibiotic resistance, as well as on the consequences for the bacterial physiology of acquiring resistance is needed to implement novel strategies, beyond the development of new antibiotics or the restriction in the use of current ones, to more efficiently treat infections. There are still several aspects in the field of antibiotic resistance that are not fully understood. In the current article, we make a non-exhaustive critical review of some of them that we consider of special relevance, in the aim of presenting a snapshot of the studies that still need to be done to tackle antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fernando Baquero
- Ramón y Cajal Institute for Health Research (IRYCIS), Department of MicrobiologyRamón y Cajal University Hospital, CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP)MadridSpain
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Sulis G, Sayood S, Gandra S. How can we tackle the overuse of antibiotics in low- and middle-income countries? Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2023; 21:1189-1201. [PMID: 37746828 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2263643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antibiotic overuse is a pressing global health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where there is limited access to quality healthcare and insufficient regulation of antibiotic dispensation. This perspective piece highlights the challenges of antibiotic overuse in LMICs and provides insights into potential solutions to address this issue. AREAS COVERED This perspective explores key factors contributing to antibiotic overuse in LMICs, encompassing weak healthcare infrastructure, limited access to quality services, and deficiencies in diagnostic capabilities. It discusses regulatory frameworks to curb non-prescription sales, the role of accessible point-of-care diagnostic tools, challenges in implementing effective stewardship programs, the expanded use of vaccines, and the importance of health systems, hygiene, and sanitation. EXPERT OPINION In this article, we emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach involving collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, and educators. We underscore the importance of improving healthcare infrastructure, enhancing access to quality services, and strengthening diagnostic capabilities. The article also highlights the significance of education and awareness in promoting responsible antibiotic use, the role of regulatory measures, the expanded utilization of vaccines, and the need for international collaboration to address the challenges of antibiotic overuse in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Sulis
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sena Sayood
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sumanth Gandra
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Yoon YK, Moon C, Kim J, Heo ST, Lee MS, Lee S, Kwon KT, Kim SW. Korean Guidelines for Use of Antibiotics for Intra-abdominal Infections in Adults. Infect Chemother 2022; 54:812-853. [PMID: 36596690 PMCID: PMC9840951 DOI: 10.3947/ic.2022.0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The guidelines are intended to provide practical information for the correct use of antibiotics for intra-abdominal infections in Korea. With the aim of realizing evidence-based treatment, these guidelines for the use of antibiotics were written to help clinicians find answers to key clinical questions that arise in the course of patient care, using the latest research results based on systematic literature review. The guidelines were prepared in consideration of the data on the causative pathogens of intra-abdominal infections in Korea, the antibiotic susceptibility of the causative pathogens, and the antibiotics available in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Kyung Yoon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Korean Society for Antimicrobial Therapy, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chisook Moon
- Korean Society for Antimicrobial Therapy, Seoul, Korea.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Korean Society of Infectious Diseases, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Taek Heo
- Korean Society of Infectious Diseases, Seoul, Korea.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Jeju National University College of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Mi Suk Lee
- Korean Society of Infectious Diseases, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shinwon Lee
- Korean Society of Infectious Diseases, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine and Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Kwon
- Korean Society for Antimicrobial Therapy, Seoul, Korea.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Shin-Woo Kim
- Korean Society for Antimicrobial Therapy, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
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