21 Oct 2024 • A seven-day course of antibiotics for hospitalized patients with bloodstream infections is just as effective as a 14-day course, according to new findings presented at IDWeek 2024.

Analyzing data from 3,608 patients across 74 hospitals in seven countries, researchers found no significant differences in 90-day mortality or relapse rates between the two treatment durations.

This shorter approach not only shows similar safety and effectiveness but also has the potential to combat rising antimicrobial resistance and cut healthcare costs.

“Finding strong evidence that supports shorter antibiotic treatment durations is a top priority to advance antimicrobial stewardship as drug-resistant bacteria are increasingly becoming a public health threat,” said presenting author Nick Daneman, MD. “These findings underscore the effectiveness of a shorter antibiotic regimen in patients with bloodstream infections, which is welcomed as we look to identify evidence-based prescribing guidelines for serious bacterial infections.”

Source: IDSA | Read full story