Multiple recent studies also have looked at the association between use of antibiotics (drugs that fight viral and bacterial infections) in infants and the development of asthma by 18 years of age. When all of the data were looked at as a whole (called a meta-analysis), there was a slight increase in asthma in children who received antibiotics during infancy, particularly for those who received multiple courses of antibiotics. The type of antibiotic used didn’t seem to matter much, although the class of antibiotic with the strongest association with asthma was the macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin, azithromycin and clarithromycin).
Ongoing studies are needed to see if there is really an association between antibiotic use and asthma. Antibiotic use in infants likely only plays a small role in a bigger equation of why asthma is becoming more common. While we may have some control over some of these factors, such as the use of medicines in infancy, other factors, such as genetics, we have no control over.
Learn more about the prevention of allergies and asthma in children.
Sources:
Marra F, et al. Antibiotic Use in Children is Associated with Increased Risk of Asthma. Pediatrics. 2009; 123:1003-1010.
Marra F, et al. Does Exposure to Antibiotics During Infancy Lead to Development of Asthma? A Systemic Review and Metaanalysis. Chest. 2006; 129:610-618.
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