Antibiotics exert their therapeutic effects by targeting essential bacterial processes such as cell wall synthesis, protein biosynthesis, and DNA replication. Understanding the precise mechanisms of action is critical for effective treatment, minimizing resistance, and guiding the development of new antibacterial agents. This article provides a detailed overview of major antibiotic classes, including β-lactams, glycopeptides, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, and rifamycins. The molecular interactions with bacterial targets, pharmacodynamic principles, clinical applications, and limitations are discussed. The review emphasizes current challenges in antibiotic resistance and the importance of mechanism-based therapy for optimal patient outcomes.

antibiotics, cell wall synthesis inhibitors, protein synthesis inhibitors, DNA replication inhibitors, β-lactams, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, bacterial targets, pharmacodynamics, antimicrobial resistance

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