Analysis of Antibiotic Resistance and Its Main Causes

Almost a hundred years ago, the first antibiotic was discovered by Alexander Fleming. Over time, the number of antibiotics increased, with the peak of discovery occurring in the 1940s–1960s. The introduction of antibiotics into clinical practice improved the treatment of infectious and purulent diseases significantly. Along with the advent of antibacterial agents, the resistance of microorganisms to their action began to arise, which every year became an increasingly urgent global problem for the healthcare system. The situation that has arisen is considered an important socio-economic problem and a threat to world safety. The main causes of antibiotic resistance include the over-the-counter dispensing of antibiotics, self-medication, excessive and inappropriate use, incorrect prescriptions, improper dosing and treatment duration, as well as the widespread use of antibiotics in other sectors, particularly in agriculture. The spread of microorganisms' resistance is facilitated by the migration processes of people or animals and the violation of anti-epidemic measures. One of the leading aspects of the development of antibiotic resistance is the lack of new antibiotics, the imperfection of the regulatory framework, obstacles to import and distribution, and falsification of medicines. Antibiotic resistance leads to increased financial costs, overloading the health care system, a reduction in the choice of antibiotics, and their inaccessibility for certain segments of the population due to a lack of funding for the health care sector in low-income countries. Efforts to combat antibiotic resistance include programs to control the use of these drugs, monitoring resistance patterns, various public health measures, and creating incentives for the development of new antibiotics. International cooperation is essential in this context because antimicrobial resistance has no borders. As one can observe, antibiotic resistance is a multifaceted problem that encompasses medical, economic, social, and other factors. Its solution requires coordinated global efforts in health, surveillance, management, research, and public education.