Antibiotic Therapy in Pediatrics

Abstract

Although antibiotics have produced far more benefits than side effects, the physician should be constantly aware of the indications for and the failures of antibiotic therapy. The author emphasizes the necessity of making an etiologic diagnosis before selecting an antibiotic. He states that multiple therapeutic agents may be indicated in mixed infections and that antibiotics are valuable in prophylaxis. He also points out that new antibiotics have become available for management of staphylococcal infections.