Antibiotikaanvändningen

Antibiotikaanvändningen, often referred to as antibiotic use, is a critical aspect of modern medicine. Antibiotics are a class of drugs that fight bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria or preventing them from multiplying, allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection. The discovery and widespread use of antibiotics have dramatically reduced mortality from many previously deadly bacterial diseases.

However, the efficacy of antibiotics is threatened by the emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance. This occurs when bacteria evolve mechanisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics are major drivers of this resistance. Inappropriate prescribing, such as using antibiotics for viral infections where they are ineffective, and patients not completing their full course of antibiotics contribute to the problem.

Prudent antibiotic use, also known as antibiotic stewardship, is essential to preserve the effectiveness of these life-saving drugs. This involves prescribing antibiotics only when necessary, choosing the most appropriate antibiotic for the specific infection, and ensuring patients take them as directed. Public health campaigns aim to educate both healthcare professionals and the public about the importance of responsible antibiotic use. Global efforts are underway to monitor antibiotic resistance patterns and develop new strategies to combat this growing threat to public health.