Assessing the impact of antimicrobial resistance policies on antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance-associated mortality in children and adults in low and middle-income countries: a global analysis

A study examining the relationship between national policies aimed at restricting antibiotic use and actual consumption in 138 low and middle-income countries (LMICs) found a negative association between regulatory or legislative policies banning over-the-counter sales of antibiotics and the proportion of children receiving antibiotics for lower respiratory tract infections. Stronger AMR governance was associated with reduced total antibiotic consumption at the country level. The study suggests that a multifaceted approach, including evidence-based policies, targeted education, and research, is needed to fight AMR and preserve antibiotics’ effectiveness.