How to avoid NCBI API rate limits?

Strategies to Avoid NCBI API Rate Limits

• Utilize the `api_key` parameter to increase your rate limit. Register for an API key on the NCBI website and include this key in your API requests. The key allows for higher usage limits compared to anonymous access.

 

• Implement request throttling by including delays between consecutive API requests. Incorporate a sleeping mechanism in your script, such as using Python's `time.sleep()` function, to space out requests.

 

• Aggregate your queries to reduce the number of individual requests made. Structure your searches to retrieve as much data as possible per request. Use batch or multi-query options if supported.

 

• Review current API usage and eliminate redundant requests. Analyze your workflow to identify and remove unnecessary data retrieval steps.

 

• Cache previously retrieved data locally when applicable. Store results of frequent queries so you don't have to repeatedly fetch the same data from the API.

 

• Monitor API response headers to understand your current rate limits. Pay attention to headers like `X-RateLimit-Remaining` and `X-RateLimit-Reset` which can guide you to adjust your request frequency accordingly.

 

• Optimize API call frequency based on time of day. If certain time periods experience lower usage, adjust your data retrieval tasks to those off-peak hours, as this may help in managing load and avoiding limits.