Anti-Infective Agents

Narrow Spectrum

refers to antibiotics that are effective against specific types of bacteria, minimizing impact on beneficial flora.

Broad Spectrum

Interferes with several different micro-organisms

Bacteriostatic

Stops micro-organism from dividing

Bacteriocidal

Kills micro-organism

Empirical Treatment

Treatment started before a specific diagnosis, based on experience and knowledge of likely pathogens.

Synergistic Effect

The enhanced effect of two or more drugs used together, resulting in a greater therapeutic outcome than when used individually.

Prophlaxis

Prevention of disease or infection, often through medication or vaccination.

Inherent Resistance

The natural ability of certain pathogens to resist the effects of specific drugs, often due to genetic factors.

Acquires Resistance

The ability of pathogens to develop resistance to drugs over time, often through genetic mutations or selective pressure from drug use.

Antibiotic Misuse

Not taking properly or overusing antibiotics, leading to resistance.

Cross Resistance

The phenomenon where pathogens that are resistant to one antibiotic also show resistance to another antibiotic, often with a similar mechanism of action.

Allergic Reactions

Hypersensitivity, rash, itching, hives, angioedema, anaphylatic shock or other adverse effects due to immune response to a drug.

Superinfection

A secondary infection that occurs during or after treatment with antibiotics, often caused by resistant bacteria or fungi.