Summary of the latest data on antibiotic consumption in EU: 2011

Use of antibiotics is one of the main factors responsible for the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. The vast majority of human consumption of antibiotics occurs in the community; that is outside hospitals. Antibiotic consumption in Europe varies widely depending on the country. Countries in southern and eastern Europe usually report the highest consumption whereas consumption is much lower in northern Europe. A comprehensive trend analysis of representative national data showed that antibiotic consumption increased in most European countries from 1997 to 2009. However, total antibiotic consumption in the community continuously decreased in six countries (Estonia, Ireland, Latvia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden) between 2007 and 2009.