Antibiotics

Antibiotics are powerful medicines that are used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. It is important to note that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or the flu.

How do antibiotics work?

Antibiotics work in several ways to combat bacterial infections. They may:

• Interfere with the bacteria's cell wall formation, causing the bacteria to burst and die.
• Disrupt essential bacterial processes, such as protein or DNA synthesis, preventing the bacteria from multiplying.
• Target specific bacterial components or enzymes, leading to the destruction of the bacteria.

Types of antibiotics

There are several classes of antibiotics, each with its own mechanism of action and spectrum of activity. Common types of antibiotics include:

• Penicillins: e.g., amoxicillin, penicillin V
• Cephalosporins: e.g., cephalexin, ceftriaxone
• Macrolides: e.g., erythromycin, azithromycin
• Fluoroquinolones: e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin
• Tetracyclines: e.g., doxycycline, tetracycline
• Sulfonamides: e.g., trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
• Others: such as vancomycin, metronidazole, and more

Usage and resistance

It is important to use antibiotics judiciously and only as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve and become resistant to the effects of antibiotics. This can make infections harder to treat and pose a significant public health threat.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about antibiotics:

1. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not viral infections.
2. They work by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
3. There are different classes of antibiotics, each with its own mechanism of action.
4. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.
5. Always take antibiotics as prescribed by a healthcare professional and complete the full course of treatment.

Understanding the role and proper use of antibiotics is crucial for combating bacterial infections and preserving the effectiveness of these important medicines.