Antimicrobial agents play an important role in dermatologic practice. An ever-changing spectrum of newer systemic antimicrobial agents as well as the continued introduction of new antimicrobial agents and ever-changing resistance patterns make knowledge of these factors of great importance. The dermatologist must be aware of the side effects of antimicrobial agents as well as various drug interactions that may influence the choice of a drug and specific dosing schedules. With a better understanding of the antimicrobial agents presently available (Table 1), more appropriate use of these agents is possible.