Mapping the antibiotic consumption in the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

Introduction. Antibiotic consumption represents a crucial aspect of modern healthcare. Abuse and inappropriate use of antibacterial agents contribute to the phenomenon of bacterial resistance. The aim of the study was to determine antibiotic consumption in hospital conditions and map the results in order to highlight regions in the country with the highest levels of antibiotic consumption and the classes of antibiotics used.

Material and methods. Antibiotic consumption in hospitals (64 facilities) over a 4-year period (2018-2021) was determined using the defined daily dose (DDD) as the unit of measurement. The quantity of antibiotics consumed was expressed in DDD/1000 patient-days (hospitalization days), followed by mapping the results.

Results. A "very high" level of antibiotic consumption, expressed in DDD/1000 patient-days, was observed in the Falesti district, while a "medium" level of antibacterial agent consumption was observed in the Taraclia, Comrat, Ialoveni, Singerei, Glodeni, and Donduseni districts. The total consumption per antibiotic class revealed an increased use of Cephalosporins, Imidazole derivatives, Macrolides, Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones, and Aminoglycosides.

Conclusions. Mapping antibiotic consumption is an efficient tool in highlighting administrative-territorial regions with high antibiotic consumption and identifying the most frequently used antibiotic classes. Providing this information is useful for developing policies aimed at optimizing antibiotic use and minimizing resistance.