Antimicrobiens

Antimicrobiens, or antimicrobials, are substances that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They may be natural products, semisynthetic derivatives, or fully synthetic. Clinically they are grouped by the type of organism they target: antibacterials, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics.

Mechanisms vary: many antibacterials disrupt cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, nucleic acid replication, or metabolic pathways. Antivirals impede viral replication; antifungals may inhibit ergosterol synthesis or fungal cell wall formation; antiparasitics disrupt parasite metabolism or nervous system function. Drugs can be bactericidal, killing pathogens, or bacteriostatic, halting growth to allow immune clearance.

Resistance occurs when microorganisms adapt to reduce drug effectiveness. Contributing factors include inappropriate prescribing, incomplete adherence, and use in agriculture. Antimicrobial stewardship programs seek to optimize drug choice, dose, duration, and route to preserve efficacy and minimize harms.

Applications include treatment of active infections, prophylaxis in surgery or immunocompromised patients, and sometimes noninfectious uses. Selection depends on infection site, likely or confirmed organisms, and patient factors; laboratory testing guides therapy.

Historically, the discovery of penicillin in 1928 launched the antibiotic era. Since then many classes have been developed, but antimicrobial resistance is a major global health challenge. Regulatory bodies and international guidelines promote prudent use, monitoring for adverse effects, and access to essential antimicrobials as part of public health strategies.