Over the years, the number of studies and quality of methodology has increased. The most frequently observed outcomes with a positive impact were appropriateness of prescribing and cost savings. The vast majority of studies used multiple interventions, in conjunction with pharmacists' recommendations to physicians. Coupled with the use of practice guidelines or educational strategies, these interventions demonstrated a positive impact on economic or clinical outcomes. However, the data are still sparse and sometimes contradictory; therefore, further studies with randomized controlled designs are needed.

Even though interdisciplinary interventions aiming at rationalizing antibiotic use could not diminish the duration of treatments, their costs or the length of stay, they proved useful to control the progression of these parameters.

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