Antibiotic resistance is a global health threat. Inappropriate antibiotic use drives resistance development. Community pharmacies dispense millions of antibiotic prescriptions yearly. We have a role in stewardship.
Antibiotic stewardship means ensuring antibiotics are used appropriately. Right drug, right dose, right duration, right patient. Pharmacists are ideally placed to support stewardship in community settings.
Understanding the Challenge
Resistance Crisis
Antibiotic-resistant infections kill thousands yearly in the UK. Common infections becoming harder to treat. Surgical procedures becoming riskier. Without action, routine healthcare becomes dangerous.
Inappropriate Use
Antibiotics prescribed for viral infections. Courses not completed. Broad-spectrum used when narrow-spectrum would suffice. Every inappropriate use contributes to resistance.
Patient Expectations
Patients often expect antibiotics. Pressure on prescribers to prescribe. Disappointment when antibiotics not given. Changing expectations is part of stewardship.
Pharmacy Stewardship Actions
Prescription Review
Check appropriateness of antibiotic choice. Query unusual durations. Question broad-spectrum for simple infections. Professional challenge supports appropriate prescribing.
Patient Education
Explain why antibiotics are not always needed. Emphasise completing the course when prescribed. Advise on self-care for viral infections. Every consultation is education opportunity.
Self-Care Support
Recommend appropriate alternatives for viral infections. Pain relief. Decongestants. Throat lozenges. Support recovery without antibiotics where appropriate.
Practical Interventions
Course Completion
Counsel on importance of completing prescribed course. Not stopping when feeling better. Understanding why duration matters. Clear instructions on timing.
Storage and Disposal
Advise on proper storage. Return unused antibiotics for disposal. Prevent stockpiling for future self-treatment. Safe disposal protects the environment.
Delayed Prescriptions
Support delayed prescribing strategies. Explain when to use the prescription. What improvement to expect without antibiotics. When to return for reassessment.
Protect Future Healthcare
Antibiotic stewardship protects antibiotics for future generations. Every appropriate intervention helps preserve these essential medicines.
RxSure supports stewardship with intervention documentation and patient education tracking. Evidence your stewardship contribution.
Start your free trial and support antibiotic stewardship.
