Antimicrobial Agents: Antibiotics, Antivirals, and Adverse Drug Reactions

Antimicrobial Agents: Antibiotics, Antivirals, and Adverse Drug Reactions

Antimicrobial agents are a crucial part of modern medicine, used to prevent and treat infectious diseases in humans, animals, and plants. However, the overuse and misuse of antimicrobials have led to the development of drug-resistant pathogens, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of severe illness and death. In this article, we will explore the subtopics of antibiotics, antivirals, and adverse drug reactions associated with these agents.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are medicines used to prevent and treat bacterial infections. However, their overuse and misuse have led to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, a major public health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antibiotic-resistant bacteria were responsible for 1.27 million global deaths in 2019, and their misuse and overuse contribute to the development of drug-resistant pathogens.

Antibiotic-related adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a significant concern, accounting for up to 40.9% of ADRs in some studies. A retrospective cohort study conducted at a 2400-bed tertiary care hospital in South Korea found that 62.8% of patients experienced antibiotic-related ADRs based on the World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Center criteria. The most commonly reported antibiotics causing ADRs were penicillin and quinolones, with 16.0% each. The most frequent side effects were skin manifestations (45.1%) and gastrointestinal disorders (32.6%).

Antivirals

Antivirals are medicines used to prevent and treat viral infections. They work by inhibiting the replication of the virus or by blocking its entry into the host's cells. However, antivirals can also have adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, headache, and liver toxicity.

Adverse Drug Reactions

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are any unwanted or uncomfortable effects from medication that result in physical, mental, and functional injuries. ADRs are a significant concern, as they can lead to increased morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and increased medical expense. The incidence of ADRs varies, ranging from 0.15% to 30%, and 26.88% of ADRs are considered severe and required additional medical intervention.

Drug-Drug Interactions

Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) can also contribute to ADRs. For example, aminoglycosides, a type of antibiotic, can interact with amphotericin B, cyclosporin, cisplatin, loop diuretics, tacrolimus, and vancomycin, leading to increased nephrotoxicity. Fluoroquinolones can interact with medications containing aluminum, iron, magnesium, or zinc, antacids, sucralfate, and warfarin, resulting in decreased absorption of fluoroquinolones.

In conclusion, antimicrobial agents, including antibiotics and antivirals, are essential for treating and preventing infectious diseases. However, their overuse and misuse can lead to the development of drug-resistant pathogens and adverse drug reactions. Understanding the subtopics of antibiotics, antivirals, and adverse drug reactions is crucial for optimizing their usage and addressing the challenges posed by drug resistance and ADRs.