How are new antibiotics developed and tested?

Answer 1

There are 2 basic starting points: a newly discovered natural antibiotic (typically excreted by a fungus or a plant) or an existing antibiotic. In the first case the process starts by figuring out how to produce it in quantity and purify it. In the second case an organic chemist studies the structure of the antibiotic and proposes a list of possible chemical changes that might improve its effect or reduce side effects. In both cases a series of tests begin both in vitro and in vivo to make sure it is safe and effective.

Answer 2

New antibiotics are typically developed through a process of identifying promising compounds that can target bacteria. These compounds go through rigorous laboratory testing to assess their effectiveness and safety. Once a potential candidate is identified, it moves to preclinical and clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy in treating bacterial infections in humans.