Impact of a Multimodal Intervention on Antibiotic Prescribing for Respiratory Infections in Primary Care: A Cluster-Randomized Trial

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), considered one of the greatest global threats by the WHO, justifies the development of initiatives to promote appropriate antibiotic use-especially in primary care, where most antibiotics in France are prescribed and where misuse remains common.

We are proposing a cluster-randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a bimodal intervention combining: (1) improved communication about the circulation of respiratory viruses, and (2) strengthened collaborative practices between general practitioners and pharmacists through a multidisciplinary protocol aimed at verifying that prescribed treatment durations comply with guidelines.

The study will include six primary care practices (24 physicians), with three practices in each study arm.

The aim of this project is to assess whether the bimodal intervention can reduce the duration of antibiotic treatments for upper and lower respiratory tract infections. The first component (a "viral infection prescription" tool) focuses on reducing unnecessary treatment initiation, while the second (pharmacist-led review) aims to shorten excessive prescription durations.