Dtsch Arztebl Int
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In view of the rise in antibiotic resistance and Clostridium difficile superinfection, close monitoring of antibiotic prescribing practices is essential so that targeted quality assurance measures can be taken. ⋯ This study revealed an overall decline in outpatient antibiotic prescriptions for persons under age 15 as well as other major changes in prescribing practices for the types of antibiotics studied. The observed marked rise in cephalosporin prescribing rates in all German states demands special attention because of the associated danger of increased antibiotic resistance and C. difficile superinfection. Oral cephalosporins are not recommended as drugs of first choice in current guidelines.