Out-patient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT): clinical outcomes and adverse events.

A chart review was conducted of patients in a program featuring self directed, home infusion of antibiotics for serious infections utilizing an out-patient medical office for teaching, mixing of drugs, and monitoring of patients. 302 courses of out-patient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) were administered to 221 patients. Therapy was successful in 94% of the episodes. Objective adverse events were noted in 25% of patients. To maximize the chance for a successful outcome, treatment plans should be individualized and structured to include systematic monitoring for adverse effects.