Gjettum

Researchers are evaluating the safety and effectiveness of stopping antibiotic treatment early in adult patients hospitalized with respiratory virus infections. This study addresses concerns about antibiotic overuse in community-acquired pneumonia, which can lead to resistance. The trial focuses on patients with moderately severe disease who test positive for respiratory viruses like influenza, RSV, and others, aiming to see if stopping antibiotics early is as safe and effective as continuing them. Participants are adults 18 years or older who are already on antibiotics started by their admitting doctor. They will be randomly assigned to either stop antibiotic therapy or continue it as usual. The main goal is to compare early clinical response at 120 hours after randomization, defined by survival with symptom improvement without needing additional antibiotics. The study also looks at mortality rates, length of hospital stay, and total antibiotic use. During the study, researchers will monitor symptoms, treatment needs, and patient outcomes closely. They will track improvements or worsening of symptoms and record any additional treatments required. The involvement period includes hospitalization and follow-up through the early clinical response time point. Safety and treatment effects will be assessed carefully to determine if early antibiotic discontinuation is a viable option.