Prospects for overcoming antimicrobial resistance: a review of novel antibacterial agents

Containing the spread of antimicrobial resistance is one of the key global public health priorities. The availability of effective antimicrobial agents is essential for success in pediatrics, surgery, transplant medicine, oncology, and many other fields. Antimicrobial resistance contributes to increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, higher rates of complications and adverse events, and elevated mortality.

New resistance mechanisms continue to emerge and spread worldwide, undermining the ability to treat infectious diseases, delaying recovery, increasing disability, and raising the risk of death. The escalating issue of microbial resistance to antimicrobial agents underscores the urgent need to develop novel antibacterial drugs. Addressing this challenge requires a systematic approach to investigating the mechanisms underlying the emergence and spread of resistance.

The development of new antibacterial agents and the search for alternative strategies for the prevention, treatment, and diagnosis of infectious diseases will enhance infection control and reduce disability and mortality rates. New classes of drugs with fundamentally novel mechanisms of action have been developed, whereas antibiotics from existing classes are being optimized. In addition, various alternative compounds with antibacterial activity in vitro and in vivo are under investigation. Particular attention is being given to agents that directly inhibit the mechanisms underlying antibiotic resistance.

This review discusses antibacterial agents developed and introduced into clinical practice between 2014 and 2024, outlines the main mechanisms of bacterial resistance, and highlights current prospects for combating antibiotic resistance.