Antibiotics

Definition and Role

Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or slowing their growth.
They work by various methods, such as interfering with the construction of the bacterial cell wall or disrupting the metabolism of the cells.
Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses as they do not have the cell structure that these drugs target.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics affect a wide range of bacteria. They are often used when the specific causative bacteria is not known.
Narrow-spectrum antibiotics are designed to target specific types of bacteria. They are used when the causative bacterium is known.

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in response to the use of these medicines and are able to resist the effects of the antibiotic.
This makes infections caused by these resistant bacteria harder to treat, often leading to increased medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality.
Overuse and misuse of antibiotics can encourage the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.

Improper use of antibiotics such as not taking the full course of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Overprescription of antibiotics, including for viral illnesses like the common cold, can also contribute to this problem.
Some bacteria can naturally resist certain types of antibiotics due to the presence of certain genes. This resistance can be passed onto other bacteria.
Frequently using antibacterial cleansers and hand sanitizers might also contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Proper use of antibiotics is vital in slowing down the development of antibiotic resistance.
Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a qualified health professional and always take the full prescription, even if you feel better before it’s finished.
Never share or use leftover antibiotics. Antibiotics treat specific types of infections, and using the wrong antibiotic may delay the correct treatment and allow bacteria to multiply.
Hand hygiene, vaccination, and safer sex can help prevent infections in the first place, reducing the need for antibiotics.