(39) GCSE Biology Revision "Antibiotics"

Disease Treatment with Antibiotics

• Many diseases are caused by bacteria, including:

  • Salmonella food poisoning

  • Gonorrhea

• Antibiotics have made many bacterial diseases treatable since their discovery in the 1940s.

• Penicillin: The first antibiotic, effective in killing infected bacteria without harming human cells.

Antibiotic Resistance

• A major issue where certain bacteria evolve to become resistant to antibiotics.

• The problem stems from the overuse of antibiotics, which allows bacteria to adapt and survive.

• Potential future consequences:

  • Bacterial diseases may become difficult to treat due to resistance.

• Further exploration of antibiotic resistance is planned for later discussions.

Prescription Guidelines for Antibiotics

• Doctors are cautious when prescribing antibiotics:

  • Specific antibiotics are prescribed for specific bacteria.

  • They do not prescribe antibiotics for viral infections.

• Antibiotics vs. Viruses:

  • Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses (e.g., sore throat caused by a virus).

Other Drug Types

• Painkillers:

  • Used to relieve pain but do not kill pathogens or treat the underlying disease.