ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIPTION PATTERNS FOR ODONTOGENIC INFECTIONS: ARE WE CONTRIBUTING TO RESISTANCE?
Keywords:
Odontogenic infections, Antimicrobial resistance, Dental prescribing practices, Empirical antibiotic use, Antibiotic stewardship, Public and private dental settingsAbstract
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze antibiotic prescription patterns for odontogenic infections and assess their potential role in fostering antimicrobial resistance.
METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study involving 215 patients presenting with odontogenic infections was conducted at the Civil Hospital Dental OPD (outpatient department), LUMHS ( Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences) Hyderabad. Data on patient demographics, infection characteristics, antibiotic prescriptions, prescriber profiles, and culture sensitivity results (in a subset of 80 cases) were collected using a structured proforma. Prescription appropriateness and adherence to stewardship guidelines were evaluated.
RESULTS: The mean patient age was 34.5 years; 55.8% were male. Periapical abscess (51%) was the most frequently diagnosed infection. Amoxicillin was the most prescribed antibiotic (56%), followed by amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (23%). Most prescriptions (77%) adhered to guideline dosages; however, 35% exceeded recommended course durations. Culture sensitivity revealed 25% resistance to amoxicillin and 12.5% resistance to clindamycin. General dentists accounted for 70% of prescriptions, with 65% aware of antibiotic stewardship guidelines. Clinical resolution occurred in 88% of cases, while 12% required treatment modification. Adverse effects were minimal.
CONCLUSION: Effective management of odontogenic infections demands rational antibiotic use to mitigate the rise of antimicrobial resistance. This study highlights promising trends alongside areas needing attention, notably duration of therapy and empirical prescribing. Coordinated stewardship efforts, prescriber education, and robust surveillance are essential to preserve antibiotic efficacy and safeguard patient outcomes
KEYWORDS: Odontogenic infections, Antimicrobial resistance, Dental prescribing practices, Empirical antibiotic use, Antibiotic stewardship, Public and private dental settings.
