Using Measurement Of Chemical In Blood May Help Reduce Overuse Of Antibiotics For Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

The use of guidelines for treatment of lower respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia determined by measurements of a chemical in the blood known as procalcitonin resulted in lower rates of antibiotic use and associated adverse effects, and similar rates of adverse outcomes compared to standard guidelines, according to a study in the September 9 issue of JAMA.