Bacterial resistance to antibiotic alternatives: a wolf in sheep’s clothing?

peer-reviewedImplications • Substantial pressure to reduce antibiotic use has necessitated the development of antibiotic alternatives. However, relatively little consideration has been given to the development of resistance to these alternatives. • Whether we come up with antibiotic alternatives that are bacteriocidal or inhibitory, bacteria will continue to adapt and evolve. • Some antibiotic alternatives support the development of antibiotic resistance necessitating caution. • There are opportunities to optimize antibiotic alternative effectiveness as well as to minimize the development of resistance mechanisms