A pilot project proves the use of antibiotics can be reduced, specifically in hospitals, the German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF) said on Wednesday.

Frequent use of broad spectrum antibiotics may lead to the formation of multi-resistant bacteria, which find fertile grounds in hospitals and can critically jeopardize patients.

Therefore, an important strategy to get this problem under control is more targeted and intelligent use of antibiotics, said DZIF.

Scientists at the University Hospital Freiburg were able to show in a pilot project that this strategy can be successfully implemented.

"A big problem at present is the excessive use of so-called third generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones, which are very effective. But their high consumption can bring several special multiresistant problem germs into hospitals," said Prof. Winfried Kern from the University Hospital Freiburg.

Kern, who works at DZIF in the area of "hospital acquired infections and antibiotic-resistant germs," implemented a pilot project in internal medicine at the University Hospital Freiburg, which could reduce the consumption of critical broad spectrum antibiotics by about 30 percent in a year.

The pilot project called "antibiotic stewardship programs" aimed to reduce the consumption of cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones, while the use of penicillin derivatives was supported.

"Based on experience, penicillin derivatives have shown to be less risky for the formation of the currently alarming resistant pathogen in hospitals," said Kern.

The consumption of antibiotics was both analyzed in advance and documented during the study. Data were statistically processed at certain intervals so that trends were identified and could be secured through time series analysis, said DZIF.

"The data showed clearly that the program was not only feasible but also very successful," said Kern.

Initial analyses also show a positive effect on resistant pathogens, according to DZIF.

"We see in this study a proof of concept and the model should, if it works at a clinic with maximum care, be applicable to other hospitals," said Kern.

As part of the DZIF, Kern will also implement further antibiotic stewardship programs. Endi

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