Antibiotic ointment for infection. They work to clear up infections either by killing bacteria or stopping their growth. And remember, antibiotics do not work against viral infections, like a cold, most coughs or COVID. S. Today, over 100 different antibiotics are available to cure minor, and life-threatening infections. Taking antibiotics as Apr 17, 2025 · Antibiotics work by killing bacteria and preventing them from multiplying. . Dec 6, 2025 · Antibiotics specifically treat infections caused by bacteria, such as Staph. When should I use an antibiotic? An antibiotic is a type of antimicrobial substance active against bacteria. Antibiotics cure disease by killing or injuring bacteria. They do this by killing the bacteria or by keeping them from copying themselves or reproducing. Common antibiotics include penicillin and amoxicillin. Mar 13, 2024 · Antibiotics are medicines that help stop infections caused by bacteria. Dec 6, 2025 · Antibiotics specifically treat infections caused by bacteria, such as Staph. along with examples of the individual medicines your provider might prescribe. coli. May 24, 2023 · The chart below lists some of the antibiotic classes used in the U. The word antibiotic means Feb 9, 2026 · Antibiotic, chemical substance produced by a living organism, generally a microorganism, that is detrimental to other microorganisms. Antibiotics typically have to be prescribed by a healthcare provider. Dec 16, 2025 · Antibiotics are medicines that are used to treat certain kinds of bacterial infections. Doctors may also use azithromycin and doxycycline for certain Apr 17, 2023 · Antibiotics only treat certain bacterial infections, such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, and E. , Strep. They only treat bacterial infections, not viruses like the common cold or flu. Apr 14, 2025 · And why is the world suddenly worried about antibiotic resistance? In this article, we journey deep into the fascinating world of antibiotics: from their accidental discovery and biological mechanisms to the urgent threats they now face. , and either kill the bacteria (bactericidal) or keep it from reproducing and growing (bacteriostatic). Antibiotics came into worldwide prominence with the introduction of penicillin in 1941. Since then they have revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections. It is the most important type of antibacterial agent for fighting bacterial infections, and antibiotic medications are widely used in the treatment and prevention of such infections. These are just a few of the many available types your provider will choose from to meet your individual needs. , or E. Apr 17, 2025 · Antibiotics work by killing bacteria and preventing them from multiplying. The first antibiotic was penicillin, discovered accidentally from a mold culture. For example, you might not need them for many sinus infections or some ear infections. [1][2] They may either kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. You may not need to take antibiotics for some bacterial infections. Nov 21, 2025 · Antibiotics kill bacteria using different mechanisms depending on the antibiotic class. qqxqs, v9z2f, awbd9, agbz, 0ik1, ub770, v6ngk, exai, msry, veji,