Antibiotic Stewardship and Applications of Pharmacodynamics

Abstract

The need for antimicrobial stewardship is driven by a combination of increased antimicrobial resistance, frequent inappropriate use of antibiotics, and a sparse antibiotic pipeline. Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) are advocated as a mechanism to optimize the use of antibiotics and minimize the negative consequences of such use. Various resources are needed to support an ASP, and ASPs may use a combination of core and supplemental strategies to improve patient outcomes and public health. Pharmacodynamics can be applied in ASPs through the formulary decision-making process, patient-specific dosing recommendations, and institution-wide dosing protocols.