Antibiotics
Updated August 11, 2014.
Have you ever wondered what antibiotics are or how they work? These “miracle drugs” represent a major breakthrough of the 20th century, causing a dramatic decrease in the number of deaths and diseases caused by infections. However, there are several misconceptions about antibiotics. For example, did you know that by not following doctors’ orders on antibiotic prescriptions, you could end up with even greater health problems than what you began with?
With the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of disease-causing bacteria, it is very important for all people to understand how antibiotics work and the common misconceptions associated with them. Listed below are several important points that we all should consider before starting any antibiotic treatment.
What are antibiotics?
Antibiotics are small molecules that kill or stop the growth of bacteria by blocking essential functions within the bacteria cell. Ranging from topical over-the-counter antibiotic ointments (such as the ever popular Neosporin) to intravenously injected antibiotic solutions, these drugs have proven effectiveness in eliminating bacterial infections that arise from minor cuts and scrapes as well as life-threatening system-wide infections.
Early antibiotics were discovered and isolated from fungal molds which produced them as natural defense mechanisms against bacterial infection. More recently, newer classes of antibiotics have been created synthetically in laboratories.
Because the targets of antibiotics are specific to bacterial rather than human cells, they generally have few side effects and are considered safe for the vast majority of people.
Side Effects
While antibiotics are safe for most people, a small percentage of individuals are prone to having allergic reactions to antibiotics such as penicillin and others. Symptoms include rash, respiratory problems, low blood pressure, and swelling in the throat. If you suspect an allergy to an antibiotic, immediately discontinue use and contact your physician.
Other common side effects of antibiotics may include diarrhea and yeast infections. These occur because antibiotics can wipe out the natural bacterial flora that normally coat the lining of the intestines and vaginal cavity, allowing overgrowth of the wrong kinds of microbes. Some studies suggest that simultaneous ingestion of “good bacteria”, also known as probiotics, may prevent these side effects. It has also been suggested that use of antibiotics may interfere with birth control, although these effects may not occur in all women.
Resources
Antibiotics. Medline Plus. US National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health.
Have you ever wondered what antibiotics are or how they work? These “miracle drugs” represent a major breakthrough of the 20th century, causing a dramatic decrease in the number of deaths and diseases caused by infections. However, there are several misconceptions about antibiotics. For example, did you know that by not following doctors’ orders on antibiotic prescriptions, you could end up with even greater health problems than what you began with?
With the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of disease-causing bacteria, it is very important for all people to understand how antibiotics work and the common misconceptions associated with them. Listed below are several important points that we all should consider before starting any antibiotic treatment.
What are antibiotics?
Antibiotics are small molecules that kill or stop the growth of bacteria by blocking essential functions within the bacteria cell. Ranging from topical over-the-counter antibiotic ointments (such as the ever popular Neosporin) to intravenously injected antibiotic solutions, these drugs have proven effectiveness in eliminating bacterial infections that arise from minor cuts and scrapes as well as life-threatening system-wide infections.
Early antibiotics were discovered and isolated from fungal molds which produced them as natural defense mechanisms against bacterial infection. More recently, newer classes of antibiotics have been created synthetically in laboratories.
Because the targets of antibiotics are specific to bacterial rather than human cells, they generally have few side effects and are considered safe for the vast majority of people.
Side Effects
While antibiotics are safe for most people, a small percentage of individuals are prone to having allergic reactions to antibiotics such as penicillin and others. Symptoms include rash, respiratory problems, low blood pressure, and swelling in the throat. If you suspect an allergy to an antibiotic, immediately discontinue use and contact your physician.
Other common side effects of antibiotics may include diarrhea and yeast infections. These occur because antibiotics can wipe out the natural bacterial flora that normally coat the lining of the intestines and vaginal cavity, allowing overgrowth of the wrong kinds of microbes. Some studies suggest that simultaneous ingestion of “good bacteria”, also known as probiotics, may prevent these side effects. It has also been suggested that use of antibiotics may interfere with birth control, although these effects may not occur in all women.
Resources
Antibiotics. Medline Plus. US National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health.
