Invest in antibiotic stewardship programs. These programs optimize antibiotic use, reducing resistance development and extending the lifespan of existing antibiotics, including tetracycline.
Increase funding for antibiotic research and development. The current pipeline of new antibiotics is insufficient to meet future needs. A significant increase in funding – at least $1 billion annually – is needed to discover and develop new antibiotics.
Promote responsible antibiotic use in agriculture. Reducing antibiotic use in livestock farming significantly decreases the emergence of resistant bacteria, indirectly safeguarding human health and impacting the availability of tetracycline.
Improve global surveillance systems for antibiotic resistance. Real-time data on resistance patterns allows for quicker identification of outbreaks and informed responses, preventing future shortages.
Support development of rapid diagnostic tests. Accurate and fast diagnostics enable targeted antibiotic use, minimizing unnecessary prescriptions and preserving antibiotic effectiveness, including tetracycline’s.
Expand access to generic antibiotics. Generic alternatives are often more affordable and accessible, improving treatment rates and reducing reliance on specific brands that may be subject to shortages.
Encourage development of alternative therapies. Exploring non-antibiotic approaches to bacterial infections, such as bacteriophages or immunotherapies, provides essential alternatives and reduces the burden on existing antibiotics like tetracycline.
Strengthen international collaboration. Sharing data, resources, and expertise globally is vital to address the complex problem of antibiotic resistance and future shortages. This includes joint research efforts and the sharing of best practices for antibiotic stewardship.
