Abstract: Antimicrobial chemotherapy involves the administration of drugs with selective toxicity against pathogens involved in infections, not host cells. Antibiotics, which are agents used to combat bacteria, are among the most common antimicrobials. This chapter discusses the basic concepts of the pharmacology of antimicrobial chemotherapy and pharmacologic properties of clinically important antimicrobial agents. Moreover, clinical considerations of antibiotic therapy including indication of therapy, selection of antibiotic, and likely adverse effects are discussed. Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant micro-organisms which may be a result of inappropriate use of antibiotics. Although antimicrobial chemotherapy is undoubtedly significant in the management of infections, its potential negative effects must be recognized. Proper use of antimicrobial agents maximises the potential of the agents for therapeutic purposes, while minimising their negative effects. A good understanding of basic and clinical concepts of antimicrobial chemotherapy is therefore significant for all healthcare professionals.
Publication Year: 2014
Publication Date: 2014-01-01
Language: en
Type: book-chapter
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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Cited By Count: 13
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