Cost and Potential Avoidability of Antibiotic-Associated Adverse Drug Reactions in Children

Abstract

We identified 375 children who visited the emergency department or urgent care clinic at Children's Mercy Hospitals & Clinics for antibiotic adverse drug reactions over a 1-year period, and the total cost for these visits was $170 893.20. Of these ADRs, 17% were likely avoidable. The potential negative consequences of antibiotics should be considered at the point of prescribing.

Keywords: adverse drug reactions; antibiotics; pediatrics.