Antibiotics: Definition, Classification, Mechanism of Action, and Clinical Applications
Introduction Antibiotics are chemical substances produced by microorganisms, or synthetically prepared, that can kill or inhibit the growth of other microorganisms. They are one of the most significant discoveries in the history of medicine and have revolutionized the treatment of infectious diseases. The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928 marked the beginning of the antibiotic era. In pharmaceutical microbiology, antibiotics play a crucial role in controlling bacterial infections, ensuring product sterility, and maintaining aseptic conditions in manufacturing. However, the emergence of antibiotic resistance has become a global health concern, demanding prudent and regulated use. Definition of Antibiotics According to the World Health Organization (WHO) , antibiotics are defined as: “Antimicrobial substances active against bacteria and used to treat or prevent bacterial infections.” They can be naturally produced by microorganisms (like Penicillium m...