4 Mistakes Fueling AMR in Your Clinic (and How to Fix Them Today)

Even clinics with the best intentions may unknowingly contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Here are four frequent mistakes and practical solutions:

1. Empirical Prescribing Without Diagnostics

Fix: Ensure follow-up with culture testing, particularly in cases of recurrence.

2. Underdosing or Short Courses

Fix: Accurately calculate dosage and educate pet owners about compliance.

3. Immediate Use of Last-Resort Drugs

Fix: Begin treatment with first-line antimicrobials unless there are contraindications.

4. No Documentation or Review

Fix: Maintain prescription logs and conduct quarterly reviews.

Establishing internal guidelines, utilizing decision trees for antimicrobial therapy, and monitoring outcomes are cost-effective yet impactful measures that contribute significantly to effective antimicrobial stewardship.
References:

1. Weese JS et al. Can Vet J. 2008

2. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission. Rational Use of Veterinary Medicines, 2020