Refers to utilizing a class of antibiotics or a specific antibiotic for a defined period and then withdrawing it from use, to later reintroduce it in an attempt to limit bacterial resistance.
Has the potential for using antibiotic classes that possess greater overall activity against the predominant local pathogens, resulting in more effective treatment of nosocomial infections.
One method of achieving antimicrobial heterogeneity by using multiple classes of antibiotics in a setting such as a hospital or an ICU, to reduce emergence of bacterial resistance that might occur with the utilization of a single or limited number of antibiotic classes.
Cyclical antibiotics, also known as pulsed or intermittent antibiotic therapy, involve a treatment approach where antibiotics are taken in cycles of on and off periods, rather than continuously.
It helps reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance, minimize side effects, and optimize the effectiveness of the treatment.
In cyclical antibiotic therapy, patients typically take antibiotics for a specific period of time (e.g., one week on, one week off) or according to a specific schedule determined by their doctor.
The goal is to target the bacteria during the treatment period while allowing the body to recover and reduce the risk of resistance during the off period.
Cyclical antibiotics may be used in various medical conditions, such as chronic infections, acne, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or urinary tract infections.
The rationale behind this approach is to prevent the development of resistance by giving the bacteria a chance to be exposed to the antibiotic and then allowing a period of time where the bacteria are not under selective pressure.