Judicious Use of Antibiotics in Dermatology
In the millennia before the advent of antibiotic therapy, the leading cause of human mortality was infectious disease. We must view antibiotic drugs as precious lifesaving materials and thus exercise judicious use when prescribing such agents to avoid a contribution to the mounting global threat of antibiotic resistance. Herein, the appropriate use of antibiotics in dermatology is discussed as well as ways to promote good antibiotic stewardship to patients.
What do you do if they refuse treatment?
In some instances, antibiotic phobia in patients can be totally accepted and alternative treatments explored. As an example, laser and light therapy, hormonal manipulation, zinc-based nutritional supplements, and intensive nonantibiotic topical combination drugs can supplant antibiotics for the management of acne.
What resources do you recommend to patients for more information?
There are some excellent resources online for patients such as “Using Antibiotics Wisely” and “Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work.”
