ANTIBIOTIC-THERAPY - PAST, PRESENT AND FU TURE

The antibiotic era started in 1941. Several antibiotics were obtained from the fermentation broth, either from moulds (penicillin) or from A ctinomyces species (erythromycin). Numerous antibacterial agents were prepared synthetically such as benzylpyrimidines, 4-quinolones, nitroh eterocyclic derivatives, have been developed. Consecutive << waves >> of newer antibiotics was helpful to solve some infectious problems but simultaneous emergence of resistant strains has occurred amongst init ially susceptible bacteria. This imposes reconsideration of our therap eutic armamentarium and a search for new compounds as well as for new concepts in anti-infective therapy.