Geriatrics
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The elderly represent an increasing percentage of the population, and an important group of users of intravenous antibiotics. Therapy at home can provide a cost-effective means of treating many infectious diseases. ⋯ Choice of antimicrobial agent is dependent upon ease of administration, safety, efficacy, and cost. Careful patient selection, availability of appropriate home health care services, and diligent physician follow-up can allow many elderly patients to receive long-term intravenous antibiotic therapy outside the hospital.