What question did this study set out to answer?

This study aims to evaluate antibiotic use patterns in a tertiary hospital using the WHO AWaRe classification.

January 14, 2026Open Access

P-884. Disproportionate Use of Watch and Reserve Antibiotics and Underutilization of ID Consultation: A WHO AWaRe-Based Study in a Tertiary Hospital

Key Points

This study aims to evaluate antibiotic use patterns in a tertiary hospital using the WHO AWaRe classification.
Prospective observational study conducted among 1,090 hospitalized patients.
Data on antibiotic prescriptions were categorized by WHO AWaRe groups.
Indications for antibiotic use included empirical, definitive, and surgical prophylaxis.
Majority of antibiotics prescribed belonged to the Access group; most common was amoxicillin-clavulanate.
High reliance on broad-spectrum agents like cefuroxime and cefoperazone-sulbactam.
Only 8.4% of patients received Infectious Disease consultation, indicating underutilization.

Abstract

Abstract Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global health threat, largely driven by inappropriate antibiotic use. The WHO AWaRe classification (Access, Watch, and Reserve) provides a strategic framework to optimize antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship. This study evaluates antibiotic use patterns using AWaRe in a tertiary hospital. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted in February 2025 among 1,090 hospitalized patients. Of these, 642 (58.9%) received at least one course of antibiotics. Data on prescribing patterns, indications, and duration were collected and categorized by the WHO AWaRe groups. Indications were classified as empirical (383 patients), definitive (64 patients), and surgical prophylaxis (195 patients). Infectious Diseases (ID) consultation was obtained in 54 cases (8.4%). Results Of the antibiotics prescribed, the Access group accounted for the majority of initial therapies. The most frequently prescribed agents were amoxicillin-clavulanate (46 patients, 331 doses), clindamycin (28 patients, 316 doses), and azithromycin (44 patients, 158 doses). The Watch group was predominantly represented by cefuroxime (201 patients, 1,025 doses) and cefoperazone-sulbactam (124 patients, 851 doses), reflecting a high reliance on broad-spectrum agents. Carbapenems and anti-pseudomonal β-lactams were also widely used, including meropenem (43 patients, 578 doses). The Reserve group was prescribed in 10.5% of antibiotic-receiving patients, with notable agents including colistin (6 IV, 1 nebulized), ceftazidime-avibactam (5 patients, 114 doses), and tigecycline (5 patients, 45 doses)—raising concerns regarding escalation without stewardship oversight. Only 8.4% of patients on antibiotics had ID consultation, indicating underutilization of expert guidance in high-risk antibiotic use. Conclusion Watch and Reserve antibiotics were used disproportionately, often without Infectious Disease (ID) consultation. The limited use of Access group antibiotics, despite WHO recommendations, underscores the urgent need for improved stewardship, increased ID involvement, and strict adherence to AWaRe guidelines. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

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