Computer-assisted evaluation of antibiotic regimen coverage and cost.

Evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of antibiotic regimens has become an essential part of drug selection for pharmacists and physicians. However, these evaluations can be complicated, time-consuming, and, if the data used are not based on local conditions, misleading. The computer program Dare to Compare 98 was developed to provide an analysis of empiric antibiotic regimens. The Infectious Disease Challenge portion of the program lists the commonly identified pathogens in specific infectious diseases. The Antibiogram Susceptibility Reports section generates susceptibility reports based on local antibiogram data or data from institutions nationwide that have similar demographic profiles. Susceptibility information is combined with cost data in the Quality/Cost Index section. Comparison of the quality and cost index values allows the user to determine which regimens provide the optimal microbiologic activity and cost values for treatment of a particular infectious disease based on local data. Thus Dare to Compare 98 can help pharmacists and physicians evaluate antibiotic regimens and their suitability for inclusion in formularies and disease-management algorithms.