Improving the Treatment of Bacterial Infections Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria Through Drug Repositioning

The document explores drug repositioning as a strategy to treat bacterial infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, reviewing over 1,700 articles. It identifies more than 70 non-antimicrobial drugs with antimicrobial activity, including anticancer drugs, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, proton pump inhibitors, NSAIDs, anesthetics, cardiovascular drugs, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and drugs for epilepsy and metabolic disorders. These drugs show potential against pathogens like MRSA and tuberculosis by various mechanisms, such as inhibiting bacterial enzymes and enhancing immune responses. While most research is in preclinical phases, some clinical trials are underway, indicating a promising avenue for developing new antibacterial therapies. Further research is needed to establish safe and effective doses.