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Outpatient Penicillin Use
Consumption is declining, but the oldest class remains the most frequently dispensed one
BACKGROUND
Penicillins (penams) are part of a family of antibiotics known as beta-lactams, along with cephalosporins, carbapenems, and other classes. Together they share a common mode of action that involves inactivating enzymes required for cellular wall synthesis. Narrow-spectrum penams (benzylpenicillin, oxacillin) are still used for streptococcal infections but have otherwise been largely superseded by broad-spectrum penams (amoxicillin, co-amoxiclav) commonly given to treat sinusitis and otitis media. Extended-spectrum penicillins (piperacillin) are another subclass active against the most resilient gram-negative species, but their use in ambulatory medicine is limited, since they are absorbed only intravenously.
Despite a higher prevalence of allergic reactions compared to other classes, penicillins continue to enjoy high popularity because of their low cost. However, utilization of these affordable treatments is now decreasing, in part because of rising bacterial resistance.
A REGIONAL PICTURE OF ANTIBIOTIC CONSUMPTION
