Drug resistance mechanisms

Drug resistance occurs when microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, or fungi change in ways that reduce how effectively medications can kill or inhibit them. These changes can happen through genetic mutations or by acquiring new genes, allowing the microbes to neutralize the drug, pump it out before it works, or alter the drug’s target. As a result, treatments become less effective or fail altogether. Resistance develops faster when medications are overused or misused, such as not completing a prescribed course. Understanding these mechanisms helps in creating better strategies to prevent and manage resistance, ensuring therapies remain effective.