15 - Drugs

Question 1

Define drug

Answer 1

A substance taken into the body (2)
that modifies/affects chemical reactions in the body (3)

Question 2

Explain the use of antibiotics

Answer 2

Antibiotics are used for the treatment of bacterial infections (1)
They affect the working of bacterial cells either by disrupting their structure (cell wall) or by preventing them from reproducing (3)
Antibiotics target prokaryotes specifically - they do not harm animal cells (1)

Question 3

Describe the effectiveness of antibiotics on bacteria and viruses

Answer 3

Some bacteria are resistant (not immune) to antibiotics which reduces their effectiveness (2)
Viruses are not affected by antibiotics (1)
as they do not have a cell wall (2)

Question 4

Explain how commonly prescribed antibiotics are overused and how using antibiotics only when essential
can limit the development of resistant bacteria
(e.g. MRSA)

Answer 4

Commonly prescribed antibiotics are less effective due to:
- overuse (of antibiotics) when not needed (1)
- failing to complete prescribed courses (1)
- use of antibiotics in farming (1)
Resistant bacteria such as MRSA develop due to the overuse of antibiotics (1)
To prevent antibiotic resistance, antibiotics should only be used when necessary (& prescribed course should be completed) (1)