Antibiotic Economies: The Economisation of Antibiotic Use in Australia and Implications for the Mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance

This paper explores how economic rationalities influence antibiotic usage in Australia, aiming to reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR). It uses sociological theory of pharmaceutical capitalisation and economisation to analyze interviews with scientists, policymakers, prescribers, patients, and pet owners. The study suggests that antibiotic use is influenced by other social agents, decentring prescriber authority, and adopting socio-economic values is crucial for effective AMR intervention.