Antimicrobial resistanceAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the term used to describe the ability of some bugs to remain unaffected by certain drugs.

'Antimicrobials' is the name given to a group of medicines which treat infections caused by microorganisms such as bacteria (for example, E. coli), parasites (for example, malaria), viruses (for example, influenza), and fungi (for example, Candida).

Antimicrobial resistance describes the changes in bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi which enable them to withstand treatment by antimicrobial drugs, meaning that the drugs no longer work, or work less effectively. There is a common misconception that it is the body that becomes resistant to antibiotics, but this is not the case. It is the bacteria, which cause the illness, that become resistant. You may have heard of some resistant bacteria, so-called 'superbugs' such as MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) in the media.

Most people will be familiar with antibiotics such as penicillin. The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming - an alumnus of Imperial College - in 1928, its mass production, and widespread use during World War II and beyond have saved countless lives that would otherwise have been lost due to infection. Today, antimicrobials continue to be vital in the treatment of disease and are fundamental to the medical practices we take for granted, from chemotherapy to hip replacements.


Antibiotic Research UK

ARUK is a UK charity dedicated to serving patients with affected by AMR and they are determined to offer as much support as we can to those affected. Find out more about how they are supporting people who have been either been diagnosed with an antibiotic-resistant infection themselves, or who have cared for someone who has.

AMR