Increasing use of azoles combined with corticosteroids in Denmark.

INTRODUCTION

Superficial fungal infections are of growing concern, especially with the emergence of antifungal-resistant infections. Antifungal stewardship is important for preventing further resistance, and understanding how these medications are used will advise public health policy. Our objective was to determine antifungal prescribing patterns in Denmark's primary care sector.

METHODS

We analysed data from the Danish Health Data Bank Medstat website. We examined the number of individuals per 1,000 who received triazole/corticosteroid combinations, miconazole, topical and oral terbinafine, ketoconazole, fluconazole and itraconazole. Data were analysed for both males and females across the following age groups: 0-24 years, 25-44 years, 45-64 years and > 65 years.

RESULTS

When analysing topical medications, we found high rates of triazole/corticosteroid prescriptions in all age groups. Topical ketoconazole was the most prescribed topical monotherapy across all ages; topical terbinafine prescription tended to decrease over time. When analysing oral medications, terbinafine was most commonly prescribed in males until age 65 years, after which fluconazole and terbinafine were prescribed at similar rates. Fluconazole prescriptions were highest among females of all age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Antifungal prescribing patterns in Denmark have shifted substantially over time, with persistently high use of azole/corticosteroid combination therapies highlighting the importance of ongoing antifungal stewardship.

FUNDING: None.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not relevant.