Antibiotics are crucial medications that combat bacterial infections, having revolutionized modern medicine. The growing threat of antibiotic resistance,...
Antibiotics function by targeting specific bacterial processes, such as damaging cell walls, interfering with protein synthesis, or disrupting DNA replication, thereby killing bacteria or inhibiting their multiplication.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria adapt and are no longer affected by antibiotics designed to kill them. This makes infections harder to treat, leading to prolonged illness and increased healthcare costs.
No, antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. They do not work on viruses, so they cannot cure the flu, common cold, or other viral illnesses. Unnecessary use contributes to resistance.
Individuals can help by only using antibiotics when prescribed, taking the full course as directed, not sharing them, practicing good hygiene, and getting vaccinated to prevent infections in the first place.