ICMR developing guidelines for antibiotic use in respiratory infections
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is currently developing a vast set of evidence-based guidelines, for the empirical use of antibiotics in upper respiratory infections, community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), and fever. This initiative marks the first time such extensive guidelines are being formulated. The development process will involve compiling systematic reviews and meta-analyses from existing literature, with a focus on well-defined review questions.
Approach to assess strength of evidence
The evidence gathered from these systematic reviews and meta-analyses will be thoroughly evaluated for its strength using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach. This grading methodology will serve as a tool to assess the quality of evidence. The resulting data will then inform the formulation of recommendations following the application of the Evidence to Decision (EtD) framework.
Researcher participation in guideline development
In its effort to develop these guidelines, the ICMR has invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from researchers. The review questions for this project are divided into four categories: when to start empirical antibiotics, which class of antibiotics to start empirically, when to stop the empirical antibiotics, and when to change antibiotics. This collaborative approach aims at ensuring a comprehensive and effective set of guidelines for antibiotic use in respiratory infections.
