[Antibiotherapy in the past, present and future].

The antibiotic era started in 1941. Several antibiotics were obtained from the fermentation broth, either from moulds (penicillin) or from Actinomyces species (erythromycin). Numerous antibacterial agents were prepared synthetically such as benzylpyrimidines, 4-quinolones, nitroheterocyclic derivatives, have been developed. Consecutive "waves" of newer antibiotics was helpful to solve some infectious problems but simultaneous emergence of resistant strains has occurred amongst initially susceptible bacteria. This imposes reconsideration of our therapeutic armamentarium and a search for new compounds as well as for new concepts in anti-infective therapy.