Antibacterials (Antibiotics)
Powerful broad-spectrum antibiotic containing amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, effective against bacterial infections.
Combination drug (sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim), fights infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract and GI tract.
Macrolide antibiotic (clarithromycin), effective in respiratory infections, skin diseases and Helicobacter infection.
Second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, prescribed for bronchitis, otitis media, sore throat, and other bacterial infections.
Fluoroquinolone (ciprofloxacin) used for severe bacterial infections, including pneumonia and urinary tract infections.
Lincosamide group antibiotic (clindamycin), effective against anaerobic infections including abscesses and skin infections.
Tetracycline antibiotic, used for bacterial and parasitic infections including chlamydia and Lyme disease.
First generation cephalosporin antibiotic (cefadroxil), indicated for tonsillitis, skin infections and urinary tract infections.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotic (ofloxacin), treats infections of the ENT organs, genitourinary system and respiratory tract.
Macrolide antibiotic (erythromycin), used for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, skin, and sexually transmitted diseases.
First-generation cephalosporin (cephalexin), prescribed for sore throat, sinusitis, skin infections, and urinary tract infections.
Antifungal agent (terbinafine), effectively treats fungal infections of the skin, nails and mucous membranes.
Antituberculosis drug (ethambutol), inhibits the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Macrolide antibiotic (roxithromycin), used for respiratory, skin and urogenital infections.
Antibiotic of the tetracycline group (tetracycline), used against infections of the skin, respiratory tract and urogenital system.
Macrolide antibiotic (azithromycin), prescribed for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, skin and urogenital tract.
Antibiotics Online: Fight Infections Effectively
Antibiotics are powerful medications designed to fight bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Since the discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928, antibiotics have revolutionized healthcare, saving countless lives and making complex surgeries and treatments possible. They are essential tools in treating conditions such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and sepsis, among others.
How Antibiotics Work
Antibiotics target specific components of bacterial cells, such as their cell walls, protein synthesis, or DNA replication, which differ from human cells. This selectivity allows them to destroy harmful bacteria while leaving human cells largely unharmed. However, antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like the common cold or flu, a common misconception that often leads to misuse.
Types of Antibiotics
There are several classes of antibiotics, each with a unique mechanism of action. Some common examples include:
- Penicillins (e.g., amoxicillin): Broadly used for a variety of infections.
- Cephalosporins (e.g., cefalexin): Effective against a wide range of bacteria.
- Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin): Often prescribed for respiratory infections.
- Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline): Useful for acne and certain atypical infections.
The Growing Challenge of Antibiotic Resistance
Overuse and improper use of antibiotics have led to a global health crisis: antibiotic resistance. When bacteria are exposed to antibiotics too frequently or in insufficient doses, they can adapt and become resistant, rendering treatments ineffective. This makes infections harder to treat and increases the risk of severe outcomes. To combat this, it’s crucial to use antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and to complete the full course of treatment.
Responsible Use of Antibiotics
- Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed.
- Do not share antibiotics or use leftovers from previous prescriptions.
- Prevent infections through good hygiene and vaccinations when available.
- Consult a doctor to confirm whether antibiotics are necessary, as they won’t help with viral illnesses.
Antibiotics remain a cornerstone of modern medicine, but their effectiveness depends on how we use them. By understanding their role and limitations, we can preserve their power for future generations.