Yasar Incekara, Selda Aslan
Experimental and Applied Medical Science - 2025;6(4):338-348
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of antibiotic therapy and discharge prescriptions in patients with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) using the Medication Appropriateness Index (MAI) criteria. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2022 and January 2024 at a tertiary training and research hospital. A total of 111 patients diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia, acute/chronic bronchitis, or infectious exacerbations of COPD and asthma were included. Prescriptions were evaluated independently by two physicians based on the ten MAI domains. Results: All prescriptions were fully appropriate regarding indication, effectiveness, dosage, and directions (100%). No clinically significant drug-drug or drug-disease interactions were detected. Unnecessary antibiotic duplication occurred in 4.5% of cases, and cost appropriateness was achieved in 68%. Monotherapy was predominant during hospitalization, while a trend toward narrower-spectrum and more cost-effective regimens was observed at discharge. Conclusion: According to MAI assessment, overall clinical appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing was high. Reducing unnecessary duplication and promoting cost-effective alternatives may further strengthen rational antibiotic use and antimicrobial stewardship practices.
