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Short Communication - Archives of General Internal Medicine (2025) Volume 9, Issue 1

Antibiotic Resistance: The Growing Threat in Internal Medicine

Atom Antony *

Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Ohio State University, United States

*Corresponding Author:
Atom Antony
Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Ohio State University, United States
E-mail: a.atom@osu.edu

Received: 02-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. AAAGIM-25-162826; Editor assigned: 03-Jan-2025, PreQC No. AAAGIM-25-162826 (PQ) Reviewed:17-Jan-2025, QC No. AAAGIM-25-162826Revised:24-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. AAAGIM-25-162826 (R); Published:28-Jan-2025, DOI: 10.35841/aaagim.9.1.272

Citation: Antony A. Antibiotic Resistance: The Growing Threat in Internal Medicine. Arch Gen Intern Med. 2025;9(1):272

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Abstract

   

Antibiotic resistance is a global health crisis that continues to grow in significance, posing a major challenge in the field of internal medicine. This phenomenon occurs when bacteria evolve mechanisms to resist the effects of drugs that once killed them or inhibited their growth [1-3]. As a result, infections that were previously treatable with antibiotics are becoming increasingly difficult to manage, leading to prolonged illness, higher medical costs, and increased mortality. In this short communication, we will discuss the causes, implications, and potential solutions to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance in internal medicine [1-[3].

Causes of antibiotic resistance

The primary driver of antibiotic resistance is the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. In clinical settings, antibiotics are often prescribed inappropriately, either for viral infections, where they are ineffective, or for conditions where they are not the first line of treatment. Overprescription, incorrect dosing, and patients failing to complete prescribed courses of antibiotics all contribute to the selective pressure that promotes the survival of resistant bacteria [4]. Furthermore, in hospitals and long-term care facilities, where patients are frequently exposed to antibiotics, the rate of resistance tends to be higher. Poor infection control practices and inadequate sanitation further exacerbate the spread of resistant organisms.

Another factor contributing to antibiotic resistance is the agricultural use of antibiotics. In many regions, antibiotics are used in livestock to promote growth and prevent disease in healthy animals. This practice not only promotes the development of resistant bacteria in animals but also contributes to the transfer of these bacteria to humans through consumption of animal products, direct contact with animals, or environmental contamination [5].

Implications for internal medicine

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant infections presents numerous challenges for internal medicine. Firstly, infections that were once easily treatable, such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and sepsis, are becoming more difficult to manage. Infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) are increasingly common in both community and hospital settings.

In addition to complicating treatment regimens, antibiotic resistance leads to longer hospital stays, the need for more expensive and potent antibiotics, and an increased risk of adverse drug reactions. This not only affects patient outcomes but also strains healthcare resources, making it more difficult to manage healthcare costs. In severe cases, infections caused by resistant bacteria can lead to life-threatening complications, including organ failure and death [6-8].

Addressing antibiotic resistance

To combat antibiotic resistance, a multifaceted approach is required. First and foremost, there is a need for stricter antibiotic stewardship programs. These programs aim to ensure that antibiotics are prescribed only when necessary, with the appropriate drug, dose, and duration. By adhering to evidence-based guidelines, healthcare providers can reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics and minimize the risk of resistance.

In addition to improving antibiotic stewardship in clinical practice, investment in research and development of new antibiotics is crucial. The pipeline for new antibiotics is alarmingly sparse, and without the discovery of novel antibiotics, the threat of untreatable infections will only continue to grow. Policymakers must also focus on regulating the use of antibiotics in agriculture to curb the development of resistant bacteria that can transfer to humans [9].

Finally, global collaboration and public awareness are essential. Antibiotic resistance is a global issue that transcends borders, and countries must work together to monitor resistance patterns, share information, and implement comprehensive strategies. Public education campaigns can help reduce the misuse of antibiotics and promote proper hygiene practices, such as handwashing, which play a critical role in infection prevention [10].

Conclusion

Antibiotic resistance represents one of the most pressing challenges in internal medicine today. It threatens to reverse decades of medical progress and endanger lives worldwide. Through improved antibiotic stewardship, research into new treatments, and coordinated global efforts, it is possible to mitigate the impact of antibiotic resistance. However, it will require continued vigilance, innovation, and collaboration among healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and the general public to overcome this growing threat.

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