Abstract

THE ROLE OF THE WHO AWARE CLASSIFICATION IN ENHANCING ANTIBIOTIC STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMS

Prathap A.*, R. Abinaya, A. Abithra, S. Geethanjali, G. Harivardini and S. Hemalatha

ABSTRACT

Background: The increasing danger of antibiotic resistance to global health calls for strong antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) to maximize the use of antibiotics. For the purpose of directing antibiotic prescriptions and encouraging responsible antimicrobial use, the World Health Organization (WHO) established the AWaRe (Access, Watch, and Reserve) categorization. This paradigm helps policymakers and healthcare professionals execute targeted stewardship measures by classifying antibiotics according to their relevance in treating infections and their potential for resistance. As a result of the AWaRe classification, evidence-based decision-making is supported, inappropriate antibiotic use is decreased, and resistance development is mitigated by prioritizing Access group antibiotics for common infections, restricting Watch group antibiotics, and saving critical Reserve group antibiotics for last-line treatment. The AWaRe framework's integration into ASPs improves patient outcomes, prescriber behaviours, and the effectiveness of currently availableAntibiotics. Objectives: The WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification plays a crucial role in enhancing antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs) by providing a structured framework for antibiotic use. Its key objectives include: Optimizing Antibiotic Use, Minimizing Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Strengthening Antibiotic Stewardship Programs, Improving Surveillance and Monitoring, Promoting Equitable Access to Essential Antibiotics, Supporting Public Health Policies. The WHO AWaRe classification serves as a practical tool for guiding antibiotic prescribing, enhancing stewardship efforts, and ultimately reducing the threat of antimicrobial resistance worldwide.

Keywords: Antibiotic Stewardship, WHO AWaRe Classification, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Rational Antibiotic Use, Infectious Disease Management.