Pharmacists as Frontline Defenders Against Antibiotic Resistance: Insights From Tuberculosis Epidemics

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance remains one of the most critical threats to global health, driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics across healthcare and agricultural sectors. This literature review highlights the pivotal role pharmacists play in combating antibiotic resistance, particularly through antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) and targeted interventions. Drawing on examples from multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) epidemics and healthcare-acquired resistant infections, pharmacists contribute by optimizing antibiotic prescribing, educating patients and providers, and leveraging innovative technologies to monitor and enforce adherence to treatment regimens. Pharmacist-led initiatives have been shown to improve compliance with guidelines, reduce inappropriate antibiotic use, and enhance clinical outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings where healthcare infrastructure is constrained. The review also underscores pharmacists' expanding roles in technological advancements, including therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), decision-support systems, and telehealth, which facilitate real-time interventions and personalized treatment plans. By bridging knowledge gaps, fostering rational prescribing practices, and championing patient education, pharmacists serve as frontline defenders against the escalating crisis of antibiotic resistance.