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The purpose of this presentation is to educate providers about the most appropriate evidence-based treatment for uncomplicated UTIs in women and to improve awareness of the current problem with antibiotic resistance due to inappropriate prescribing.
Methods:
A review of the literature was conducted of meta-analysis and observational studies as well as findings from RCTs. Various current guidelines were reviewed and the recommendations from the Infectious Disease Society was decided upon as the recommended guideline in this project.
Results:
Antibiotics have been used inappropriately. Rates of resistance have been on the rise. Uncomplicated UTIs have been treated unnecessarily with prolonged courses of antibiotics. Further evaluation regarding the cause of recurrent UTIs were often not performed. Urine cultures have been routinely sent with complaints of urinary tract symptoms which are unnecessary and a waste of resources.
Conclusion:
Providers need to be aware of the current guidelines for treatment of uncomplicated UTIs in women. Flouroquinolones should be used as a last resort in order to preserve its effectiveness and prevent resistance. Macrobid is a five day course of antibiotic for treatment which is the first-line of defense. It has a very low rate of resistance despite being used for the last 40 years. Bactrim DS is the second-line of treatment but only for three days. It is imperative to practice antibiotic stewardship at all times in order to decrease potential adverse reactions in patients while protecting the effectiveness of antibiotics for future use.