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How do antibiotics actually attack the bacteria ?
How do they work ?
How do they work ?
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Antibiotics work by targeting the specific structures or processes that are unique to bacteria. For example, some antibiotics attack the cell wall of bacteria, while others interfere with their ability to make essential proteins. This specificity allows antibiotics to kill bacteria without harming human cells.
Antibiotics can do both. Some antibiotics, known as bactericidal antibiotics, directly kill bacteria by disrupting their essential functions. Other antibiotics, called bacteriostatic antibiotics, stop bacteria from growing and reproducing, giving the immune system a chance to eliminate the infection.
Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics through a process called natural selection. When exposed to an antibiotic, some bacteria may have genetic mutations that make them less susceptible to the drug. These bacteria are then able to survive and reproduce, passing on their resistant genes to future generations. Over time, this can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.
No, antibiotics only work against bacterial infections. Viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, are caused by viruses, which are not affected by antibiotics. Using antibiotics to treat a viral infection can actually be harmful, as it can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
The amount of time it takes for antibiotics to work can vary depending on the type of infection and the specific antibiotic being used. In general, most people start to feel better within a few days of starting antibiotics. However, it is important to follow the full course of treatment prescribed by a doctor, even if symptoms improve, to ensure that all bacteria are eliminated and to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.