Antibiotics Flashcards
What are antibiotics?
Antibiotics are drugs that fight infections caused by bacteria.
Can antibiotics fight viral infections?
No, antibiotics cannot fight infections caused by viruses because viruses do not feed and therefore do not ingest antibiotics.
What is the best-known antibiotic?
The best-known antibiotic is penicillin, which is produced by the fungus Penicillium.
Who discovered penicillin and when?
Penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1929.
How do antibiotics typically work?
Antibiotics usually target specific parts of a bacterium, such as:
Preventing the formation of cell walls
Damaging cell membranes
Stopping protein synthesis
Why is it important to complete a course of antibiotics?
It is important to complete a course of antibiotics because bacteria can build resistance. The first dose kills weak bacteria, and incomplete treatment allows stronger, drug-resistant bacteria to multiply.
