Rational use of antimicrobials in the treatment of upper airway infections

Objective

To analyze the main cause of the irresponsible use of antibiotics at the pediatric level in a very frequent, usually self‐limited, and typically viral condition: upper airway respiratory infections.

Sources

Different databases were searched using specific terms related to resistance to antibiotics, upper airway respiratory infections, and pediatrics patients.

Summary of the findings

Effectiveness varies depending on the place, the form of intervention, and the resources used. Multiple interventions appear to be more effective. The foundations of treatment are training in technical aspects and in communication skills for the prescribers, and having enough time for each patient; and training through the health clinic and the media for patients/parents. Deferred prescription and the use of rapid diagnostic tests in the primary care setting have been shown to be effective. A fluid relationship based on trust between clinicians and parents/guardians is one of the keystones.

Conclusions

Any project that seeks to be totally effective must include a health authority, which in addition to helping implement these measures, has the firm intention of drastically reducing the use of antibiotics in animals and in the environment, as well as favoring research into new antimicrobials.