Specific data was then tabulated to determine the increase of bacteria resistant to specific, common types of antibiotics, like penicillin and erythromycin.

However, to determine the most effective method of coping with disease resistance, the experiment then reviewed the methods of a study in Finland that examined the effects of consciously cutting back on erythromycin prescriptions, which seemed to result in a precipitous drop in disease resistant-bacteria, versus previous studies of antibiotic rotation, which a study of a hospital population indicated was fairly ineffectual.

Results:

The number of new antibiotics developed by researchers has slowed dramatically since the 1960s. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria have become more prevalent. Antibiotic 'rationing' seems to be the most effective way in the short run to contain the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Discussion:

As fewer types of antibiotics are developed, and more individuals are prescribed and use antibiotics, the chance of developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria increases. The suggested...
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