EXPLORING THE LINK BETWEEN ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIPTION FREQUENCY AND ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE DEVELOPMENT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
by Eunsol Lee
Category: Medicine
Abstract – The introduction of antibiotics has had a profound and transformative impact on human life and healthcare since their discovery in the early 20th century by Alexander Fleming. However, antibiotic resistance, a phenomenon that arises as a result of the overuse of this invention, is making this lifesaver a poison for humanity. This systematic review examines the intricate relationship between antibiotic prescription frequency and the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Through a comprehensive analysis of numerous studies, the connection between higher prescription rates and the development of resistance in various clinical and community settings is assessed. The synthesis of findings reveals divergent trends, reflecting the complexity of this association. The review underscores the urgency of responsible antibiotic stewardship to curtail unnecessary prescription practices and mitigate the escalating threat of antibiotic resistance.