Antibiotics are medicines that fight bacterial infections in people and animals. They work by killing bacteria or by making it hard for them to grow or reproduce. Antibiotics can be taken orally (by mouth) as pills, capsules or liquids, or topically as creams, sprays or ointments that go on the skin. They can also be given by injection or intravenously (IV) for more serious infections.
Some antibiotics, such as the penicillins and tetracyclines, kill bacteria by attacking their cell walls. Others, such as the aminoglycosides and chloramphenicol, interfere with the synthesis of proteins in bacteria. In general, antibiotics target bacterial proteins that are important for their growth and reproduction.
The overuse of antibiotics can cause a dangerous problem called “antibiotic resistance.” When bacteria are exposed to too many different types of antibiotics, they can develop a natural defense mechanism called “resistance,” which makes them less sensitive to the drugs. This allows the bacteria to grow and multiply even when the antibiotics aren’t working. The bacteria can then spread the infection and make other people sick.
Antibiotics can have side effects, such as diarrhea and nausea. They can also cause a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. To help prevent reactions, it is important to tell your doctor if you have allergies. It is also important to follow your doctor’s dosing instructions carefully. For example, you should finish the entire course of antibiotics to fully treat your infection and prevent the formation of resistant bacteria.
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