the trend to write "back-up" antibiotic Rxs

You'll see more physicians join the trend to write "back-up" antibiotic Rxs...in response to efforts to reduce antibiotic use.

This works well for otherwise healthy patients with common, acute respiratory infections...because most turn out to be viral.

The patient can get the "back-up" antibiotic Rx filled later...IF their condition worsens or fails to improve.

For example, a sinusitis patient gets an Rx for amoxicillin in case their symptoms don't improve in 10 days or worsen after 5 days.

This is a good opportunity for you to help select OTCs for the symptoms...and follow up with the patient to see whether they are getting better or need the Rx filled.

Help patients understand the benefits of this wait-and-see approach. Many respiratory infections are viral and get better without antibiotics. This reduces resistance...costs...and side effects.

Tell physicians to phone the Rx in to you, and you'll hold it in the computer for the patient. Suggest making the Rx valid for only a few weeks...so patients don't fill them later for another condition.

170106

• Patient Education: Prescription Pad Check Off List for Symptomatic Therapy of Upper Respiratory Infections