Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and ability to modulate immune responses. This review discusses the mechanisms of AMPs, their applications in biomedical fields, and strategies to enhance their effectiveness. AMPs can target bacterial cell membranes, disrupt biofilms, and inhibit essential cellular processes, making them effective against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. They also exhibit immunomodulatory properties, enhancing immune responses and aiding in pathogen clearance. However, challenges such as poor stability, toxicity, and high production costs limit their clinical application. Recent advancements in chemical modifications, biomaterials, and 3D printing have improved AMP stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery. These innovations, along with ongoing research into new delivery systems and regulatory frameworks, are crucial for overcoming current limitations and realizing the full potential of AMPs in combating antibiotic resistance and improving biomedical applications.Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and ability to modulate immune responses. This review discusses the mechanisms of AMPs, their applications in biomedical fields, and strategies to enhance their effectiveness. AMPs can target bacterial cell membranes, disrupt biofilms, and inhibit essential cellular processes, making them effective against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. They also exhibit immunomodulatory properties, enhancing immune responses and aiding in pathogen clearance. However, challenges such as poor stability, toxicity, and high production costs limit their clinical application. Recent advancements in chemical modifications, biomaterials, and 3D printing have improved AMP stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery. These innovations, along with ongoing research into new delivery systems and regulatory frameworks, are crucial for overcoming current limitations and realizing the full potential of AMPs in combating antibiotic resistance and improving biomedical applications.