Antibiotic - Definition, Types, Side Effects, Discovery, Do's & Don'ts

Antibiotics are medications that combat bacterial infections and play an essential role in modern health care. They target specific functions within bacteria, inhibit the bacteria's growth, or kill the bacteria. The topic of Antibiotics falls under Biology under the chapter Microbes in Human Welfare, the student learns of the different kinds of antibiotics, for example, penicillin, and tetracycline, and the various applications of the treatment of infection. It is one of the most important topics in NEET and JEE preparation as questions regarding antibiotic classification, their names, and probable side effects often arise in entrance exams. In mastering this topic, the student not only helps themself during exams but also puts in the critical position for antibiotics regarding health and medication.

What Are Antibiotics

Antibiotics are drugs specifically tailored for combating bacterial infections in humans and animals. It works by either killing these bacteria or blocking their multiplication, hence in high demand through modern medicine. When asking what are antibiotics, it's important to recognize that they come in various forms, including pills, injections, and topical applications.

• The proper understanding of antibiotics' names and their class is very vital for the treatment process to be effective.
• Understanding what are antibiotics is crucial for effective treatment, as they do not work against viral infections like the flu or common cold.
• It is essential to know what are antibiotics and to use them responsibly to prevent antibiotic resistance, which can make future infections harder to treat.

Antibiotics Definition

• Definition of Antibiotics refers to chemicals that can kill or stop bacteria development and are a crucial part of medical treatment.
• Several varieties of drugs employed for humans and animals by antibiotics definition are meant to fight bacterial infections.
• Understanding the antibiotics definition is important to recognize if such an antibiotic is effective against a certain pathogen but is ineffective against viruses.
• In the context of the health sector, the antibiotics definition underscores the need for prudent use to avert the development of resistance.
• The antibiotics are also defined according to their mechanism of action and spectrum of activity.

Antibiotics Names

Antibiotics examples include a wide range of medications that are used to treat bacterial infections effectively. Antibiotics are crucial medications used to treat bacterial infections and some parasitic diseases. They function by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth, making them essential in modern medicine. Below is a table listing various antibiotics names along with their classifications and common uses.

These antibiotics names represent a variety of classes and are used to combat different types of bacterial infections effectively. Proper use of antibiotics is vital to minimize resistance and ensure their continued efficacy in treating infections. Understanding what are antibiotics can help patients make informed decisions about their health and recognize the importance of completing prescribed treatments.

Also Read:

• Practice MCQ on "Antibiotic"
• Microbes In Human Welfare
• Biotechnology: Principles And Processes
  
• Antibiotic Definition

History Of Antibiotic

In 1910 the first antibiotic, salvarsan was developed by scientist Paul Ehrlich. Salvarsan antibiotics are made up of arsenic compounds. This antibiotic is used as a remedy for syphilis disease. But in 1928 a true antibiotic was discovered by Alexander Fleming, named penicillin.

Discovery Of Antibiotic

Alexander Fleming discovered this antibiotic accidentally, when he was doing their work he found mould preventing growth of staphylococcus aureus by producing such type of chemical compound; after that he studied and identified the chemical compound and he discovered a novel penicillin antibiotic. So, he formed this penicillin with the help of bacteria and fungi.

Father Of Antibiotic

Selman Abraham Waksman is the father of antibiotics and he discovered 20 natural antibiotics including streptomycin. Streptomycin is effective against tuberculosis disease.

Antibiotics Classification

Antibiotics are classified based on their mechanism of action, spectrum of activity, and chemical structure. Understanding the antibiotics classification of antibiotics is essential for selecting the appropriate treatment for bacterial infections. Below is a table that outlines various antibiotics classifications, and examples.

These antibiotics names represent a diverse range of classes that target bacteria in different ways. Proper classification of antibiotics is crucial for effective treatment and minimizing resistance. Understanding antibiotics names and antibiotics classification helps healthcare professionals make informed decisions in treating infections.

Antibiotics Drugs Name

Antibiotics are a class of drugs used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Some common antibiotics include amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, and azithromycin, each serving specific medical purposes based on the type of infection. Understanding the names of these antibiotics is crucial for effective treatment and management of bacterial diseases.

Types of antibiotics are essential in understanding how to effectively treat various bacterial infections. Each antibiotic type targets specific bacteria, making it important to select the right one based on the infection being treated.

Effectiveness Of Penicillin

Generally penicillin is used for the treatment of infection caused by the pathogenic bacteria. Each type of antibiotic is used for specific infection treatment.

It works by two ways, first - it can kill the bacteria and second - by preventing the growth of bacteria.

Types Of Antibiotics

Antibiotics are categorized into several types, each with unique mechanisms of action and use. Understanding the different types of antibiotics is essential for effective treatment of bacterial infections.

Types of antibiotics play a crucial role in modern medicine, helping to combat various bacterial infections effectively. Each type is designed to target specific bacteria, making it important to choose the appropriate one based on the infection being treated.

Production Of Antibiotic

Generally, antibiotics are produced by the fermentation process by using bacteria or fungi, and can be synthesized by using chemicals. Antibiotics are produced by the batch fermentation process. Bacteria produce antibiotics as secondary metabolites during their growth.

Steps of production:-

1. Production of antibiotics by the fermentation process, and

2. Chemically synthesis of antibiotics.

A. Production of antibiotics by fermentation process

Following are the general steps for the production of antibiotics by the fermentation process.

1. Culture isolation

Isolation of starter culture according to antibiotic production is required. Culture transferred into nutritive media.

2. Fermentation process

Transfer of fermenting material within the batch fermentor and incubation with controlled environment such as temperature, pH, aeration and agitation, and availability of nutrition.

3. Isolation and Purification of antibiotics.

It can be done by the use of water, oil, and organic solvents. For example, pentyl acetate (is an organic solvent) used in the purification of erythromycin antibiotic purification.

4. Packaging

Antibiotics can be packed in the form of a capsule, or tablet and filled within the vials.

B. Chemically synthesis of antibiotics

In the process of chemical production of antibiotics, the only difference is instead of nutritive median and starter culture we use chemicals.

Mode Of Action

Antibiotic affects bacteria in the following ways such as,

1. Inhibition of cell wall synthesis

2. Change in cell membrane potential

3. Inhibits protein synthesis process

4. Inhibits nucleic acid synthesis

5. Inhibits metabolic pathway of bacteria

Uses Of Antibiotics

Antibiotics are crucial medications used to treat various bacterial infections, effectively killing or inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. The uses of antibiotics include treating conditions such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. Understanding the specific uses of antibiotics helps healthcare professionals select the appropriate treatment for their patients.

Types of antibiotics encompass a wide range of medications that target different bacteria based on their mechanisms of action. Each type is designed for specific bacterial infections, making it essential to choose the right antibiotic for effective treatment.

Antibiotics Side Effects

Antibiotics can cause a variety of side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, and allergic reactions such as rashes or more serious conditions like anaphylaxis. Understanding the potential side effects of antibiotics is essential for safe and effective treatment.

Types of antibiotics can lead to different side effects based on their classification and mechanism of action. Knowing the specific types of antibiotics helps in anticipating potential adverse reactions during treatment.

Tips, Tricks, and Strategies to Prepare for Antibiotics

To effectively study the topic of Antibiotics: Types, Side Effects, Do's & Don'ts, consider these strategies:

Weightage of Antibiotics in Different Entrance Exams

Knowing the weightage of this topic helps prioritize your study efforts. Here’s how it is weighted across various entrance exams:

Types of Questions Asked on the Topic Antibiotics in Different Exams

Familiarizing yourself with the types of questions can help you prepare more effectively. Here’s a summary of the types of questions that may be asked across various exams:

By utilizing these tips and understanding the exam weightage and question types, you can enhance your preparation for the topic of Antibiotics.

Also Read: