COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE STRENGTH OF THE THREE MOST COMMONLY USED ANTIBIOTICS IN IBADAN: CIPROFLOXACIN, CEFTRIAXONE, AND AMOXICILLIN

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Antibiotics, especially Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, and Amoxicillin, play a vital role in managing bacterial infections, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources. The development and assessment of these antibiotics are crucial, as they show varying levels of effectiveness against common pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli—both prevalent in clinical settings (Oleghe et al., 2020). Antibiotic efficacy is often measured by its "zone of inhibition" in in vitro studies, showing the extent of bacteria suppression (ResearchGate, 2020). Studies reveal that while Ciprofloxacin is highly effective against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, its efficacy varies based on bacterial resistance patterns and the environment in which it’s deployed (Oleghe et al., 2020; Mathews Open Access, 2020).

Ceftriaxone, a third-generation cephalosporin, has demonstrated reliable results against Gram-negative bacteria, while Amoxicillin, a penicillin-class antibiotic, remains a standard treatment for respiratory and urinary infections, though its use is sometimes limited by bacterial resistance (Mathews Open Access, 2020). This study seeks to identify the comparative strength of these antibiotics by evaluating their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and zones of inhibition on targeted bacteria, following standards set by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

With rising antibiotic resistance, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, determining the efficacy of widely prescribed antibiotics is essential. This study addresses the urgent need to assess Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, and Amoxicillin, which are commonly administered in Ibadan, to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and reduce resistance risks. Resistance can complicate infection control and lead to prolonged hospitalizations and healthcare costs, posing a significant problem in medical practice and policy (ResearchGate, 2020).

1.3 Research Questions

1. What is the comparative efficacy of Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, and Amoxicillin against common pathogenic bacteria in Ibadan?

2. Which of these antibiotics demonstrates the highest zone of inhibition against targeted bacteria?

3. How does the resistance profile of bacteria influence the effectiveness of these antibiotics?

1.4 Objectives of the Study

1. To assess the comparative effectiveness of Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, and Amoxicillin against selected bacterial strains.

2. To identify which antibiotic has the highest inhibitory effect on pathogenic bacteria common in Ibadan.

3. To analyze the resistance patterns and susceptibility of bacteria to these antibiotics.

1.5 Hypotheses

Ha1: Ciprofloxacin has a significantly larger zone of inhibition against targeted bacteria than Ceftriaxone and Amoxicillin.

Ha2: There is no significant difference in the effectiveness of Ciprofloxacin and Ceftriaxone against Gram-negative bacteria.

Ha3: Amoxicillin will have a lower inhibitory effect compared to Ciprofloxacin and Ceftriaxone against Staphylococcus aureus.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This research is valuable for healthcare practitioners, providing data on the most effective antibiotic for common bacterial infections. Furthermore, it assists in formulating treatment protocols to combat resistance, promoting evidence-based prescription practices. By understanding which antibiotics are more effective locally, practitioners can make informed choices, which ultimately supports public health efforts against antibiotic resistance.

1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focuses on the antibacterial strength of Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, and Amoxicillin using samples from bacterial cultures in Ibadan. It does not include other commonly used antibiotics and is limited to laboratory conditions, which may not fully replicate in vivo environments. Additional limitations include the study’s reliance on selected bacterial strains, excluding other potential pathogens.

1.8 Definition of Key Terms

Zone of Inhibition: The area around an antibiotic disc where bacterial growth is prevented, measured in millimeters to indicate antibiotic efficacy.

Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC): The lowest concentration of an antibiotic that inhibits visible bacterial growth, used to assess potency.

Antibiotic Resistance: The ability of bacteria to survive and proliferate despite the presence of antibiotic agents intended to inhibit or kill them.