American Society of Hirudotherapy

Rethinking antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients receiving medicinal leech therapy

Case report published in American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (2022)

Last Updated: March 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Safety & Infection ControlClinical TrialsGenomics & ProteomicsMcCracken J, Koehler S, Sharma R · American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 2022

Summary

To describe challenges in the management of prophylaxis against infections for patients receiving medicinal leech therapy given changes in antimicrobial resistance patterns in the normal flora of leeches.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

Informs safety protocols and infection prevention strategies for clinical leech therapy.

Citation

Rethinking antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients receiving medicinal leech therapy.

McCracken J, Koehler S, Sharma R · American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 2022

DOI

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: March 18, 2026

This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.