ANTIMICROBIAL CONSUMPTION DATA

Antimicrobial consumption (AMC) and Antimicrobial utilisation (AMU) monitoring are conducted at national, hospital, and community levels. Since 2001, prescription data surveillance has been implemented in selected hospitals across Malaysia, encompassing facilities under the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Higher Education, Ministry of Defence, and private hospitals. This hospital surveillance system is referred to as the National Surveillance on Antibiotic Utilisation (NSAU) and expanded to public primary care settings in July 2015.

Recognizing the limitations of NSAU, the Pharmacy Practice and Development Division initiated the National Surveillance on Antimicrobial Consumption (NSAC) in 2018, which incorporated additional data sources, including public sector antimicrobial procurement and private sector sales data. Additionally, there is a call for data collection for the Western Pacific Regional Antimicrobial Consumption Surveillance System (WPRACSS).

Malaysia has adopted the WPRACCSS methodology, aligning itself with international standards while providing a thorough overview of antimicrobial usage patterns across the country. By engaging in this global initiative, Malaysia can benchmark its data against international trends, pinpoint areas needing improvement, and implement targeted strategies to optimize antimicrobial use.

The surveillance process entails meticulous data collection from both public and private healthcare facilities, ensuring a robust representation of the national consumption landscape. This data is then analyzed to identify significant consumption trends, such as the noted increase in beta-lactam antibiotics and macrolides. Understanding these patterns is crucial for guiding national policy decisions and enhancing the effectiveness of antimicrobial stewardship efforts.

Moreover, the integration of the AWaRe (Access, Watch, and Reserve) classification into the surveillance framework allows for a more nuanced understanding of antimicrobial use, promoting the prioritization of essential and less resistance-prone drugs. This strategic approach not only supports the rational use of antimicrobials but also aids in preserving the efficacy of critical antibiotics, ensuring they remain a viable treatment option for future generations.

As Malaysia continues to refine its approach to antimicrobial consumption surveillance, collaboration with international organizations and adherence to global best practices will remain key. Through these efforts, the country aims to contribute significantly to the global fight against antimicrobial resistance, safeguarding public health and ensuring sustainable healthcare outcomes.