Dose Optimization as a Strategy to Improve Clinical Outcomes and Suppress Antimicrobial Resistance

The article emphasizes the critical role of tailoring antibiotic dosing to enhance patient outcomes and combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Tracing the evolution from Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin to contemporary pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) principles, the piece underscores that antibiotics like β-lactams are most effective when their concentrations remain above the pathogen’s minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for a sufficient duration. By optimizing dosing regimens based on individual patient factors and the specific characteristics of the infection, healthcare providers can maximize therapeutic efficacy, reduce toxicity, and minimize the development of resistance. The article advocates for integrating dose optimization into antimicrobial stewardship programs as a proactive measure to preserve antibiotic effectiveness and ensure better clinical outcomes.