Gyógyszerrezisztencia

Gyógyszerrezisztencia, often translated as drug resistance, refers to the ability of a pathogen, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus, or parasite, to withstand the effects of a drug that was previously effective against it. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to public health globally, as it can lead to infections that are difficult or impossible to treat with standard medications.

The development of resistance is a natural evolutionary process. Microorganisms reproduce rapidly, and during this process, random mutations can occur in their genetic material. Some of these mutations may confer a survival advantage in the presence of a drug, allowing the resistant organisms to survive and multiply while susceptible ones are eliminated. Over time, these resistant strains can become dominant.

Factors that accelerate the development of drug resistance include the overuse and misuse of antimicrobial drugs in both human and animal medicine. Incomplete treatment courses, where patients stop taking medication before the infection is fully eradicated, also contribute by leaving behind the stronger, partially resistant organisms. Furthermore, poor infection control practices in healthcare settings and communities can facilitate the spread of resistant pathogens.

The consequences of drug resistance are severe. Infections become harder to treat, leading to longer illnesses, increased mortality rates, and higher healthcare costs. It complicates medical procedures like surgery and chemotherapy, which rely on effective antibiotics to prevent and treat infections. Global efforts are underway to combat drug resistance through surveillance, responsible drug use, the development of new antimicrobial agents, and improved infection prevention strategies.