Colistin resurgence: Revisiting an old antibiotic in the fight against resistant pathogens

The upsurge of colistin represents a pivotal juncture in the ongoing battle against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. The aim of the literature review was to delve into the resurgence of colistin, an erstwhile antibiotic, and its renewed prominence to overcome multidrug-resistant organisms. Through an exploration of recent literature, the review has been done to highlight the efficacy of colistin against gram-negative bacteria, especially those resistant to conventional antibiotics. Despite concerns regarding its toxicity and the potential for resistance development, colistin remains a critical therapeutic option to combat against the various infections caused by these extensively drug-resistant pathogens. Recent achievements in understanding colistin's pharmacodynamics, mechanisms of action, and resistance operations have revitalized interest in this old antibiotic. This review scrutinizes into the efficacy, mechanisms of action, and challenges related to the renewed employment of colistin among clinical settings. Employing a comprehensive literature search strategy, diverse databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and relevant academic databases were meticulously explored. Keywords were utilized to identify pertinent studies. Screening and selection criteria were applied to sift through articles, ensuring the inclusion of studies relevant to the topic. Furthermore, ongoing research endeavours aim to optimize colistin dosing regimens and explore combination therapies to increase potency while lowering the vulnerability of adverse reactions and the threat of resistance. The resurgence of colistin underscores the ever-evolving landscape of antimicrobial therapy and emphasizes the imperative of innovative measures to tackle antibiotic resistance effectively. By revisiting the function of colistin in the armamentarium against resistant pathogens, this review underscores the imperative for continued research and stewardship efforts to optimize its clinical utility while minimizing associated drawbacks.