ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AND RATIONAL USE OF ANTIMICROBIALS

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance stands as a critical worldwide public health issue in the modern era. The rising ability of bacteria to withstand antimicrobial agents endangers the success of therapies for routine infectious illnesses and leads to higher disease complications, death rates, healthcare expenses, and extended hospital stays. Resistance emerges naturally through bacterial adaptation, yet inappropriate and excessive application of antibiotics has dramatically sped up this process. Consequently, the logical application of antimicrobial drugs is vital for maintaining antibiotic efficacy, lowering resistant bacterial populations, and enhancing patient treatment results. This paper examines the biological pathways of antibiotic resistance, primary drivers of antimicrobial overuse, clinical repercussions, and the significance of evidence-based antimicrobial therapy supported by human clinical and epidemiological research findings.