Antibiotics won't prevent urinary tract infections in children

It is estimated that 70,000 to 180,000 children born in a given year will have urinary tract infection (UTI) by the age of 6.

According to a new study in the July 11 issue of the JAMA, "Recurrent urinary tract infection: risk factors and effectiveness of prophylaxis in a primary care cohort", researchers found 611 children had a first UTI and 83 had a recurent UTI, daily antibiotics may not prevent UTI from recuring in children and may increase the risk of drug resistance. A child's age and race may paly a role in the risk of UTI and being resistant to antibiotics.

This is the first large study of children diagnosed with UTI to estimate the effectiveness of antibiotices in a primary care setting. The researchers suggested that it is appropriate for physicians to discuss with parents the risks and unclear benefits of daily antibiotic treatment after a child has had a first UTI. Read the press release at Medical News Today.

Some pediatricians said the findings may change the practice for the better.