Antibiotics are recognized widely for their benefits when used appropriately. However,
they are often used inappropriately despite the importance of responsible use within
good clinical practice. Effective antibiotic treatment is an essential component of
universal healthcare, and it is a global responsibility to ensure appropriate use.
Currently, pharmaceutical companies have little incentive to develop new antibiotics
due to scientific, regulatory, and financial barriers, further emphasizing the importance
of appropriate antibiotic use. To address this issue, the Global Alliance for Infections
in Surgery established an international multidisciplinary task force of 295 experts
from 115 countries with different backgrounds. The task force developed a position
statement called WARNING (Worldwide Antimicrobial Resistance National/International
Network Group) aimed at raising awareness of antimicrobial resistance and improving
antibiotic prescribing practices worldwide. The statement outlined is 10 axioms, or
"golden rules," for the appropriate use of antibiotics that all healthcare workers
should consistently adhere in clinical practice.