Work

Appropriateness of empiric antibiotic therapy for community-acquired pneumonia: A multicenter cross-sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains a major public health concern, with appropriate empiric antibiotic therapy critical to improving patient outcomes and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Despite the availability of national guidelines, adherence among physicians in Lebanon was previously unclear. Objective: To evaluate the appropriateness of empiric antibiotic prescribing for hospitalized CAP patients in Lebanon and identify factors associated with non-compliance with national guidelines. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in five Lebanese hospitals across various regions. Medical records of 380 adult CAP patients were reviewed. Empiric antibiotic regimens were evaluated for compliance with national CAP guidelines based on drug selection, dosage, route, and duration. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of inappropriate prescribing. Results: < 0.001). Clinical factors such as systemic inflammatory response syndrome and elevated serum creatinine were also linked to inappropriate use. Conclusion: Non-compliance with national CAP treatment guidelines is widespread in Lebanese hospitals and driven by physician experience, geographic disparities, and misalignment in antibiotic selection. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship programs, regional training, and clinical decision support is essential to improve adherence and reduce AMR risk.

Source: Exploratory Research in Clinical and Social Pharmacy

DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2025.100669

Authors: Deema Rahme, Hania Nakkash Chmaisse, Pascale Salameh

Institutions: Lebanese University, Beirut Arab University, Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban, Lebanese American University

Language: English

Topic: Antibiotic Use and Resistance

Subfield: Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,140