Drugs

• (e.g., penicillin).

• Bacteriostatic Antibiotics: Inhibit bacterial growth, allowing the immune system to clear the infection (e.g., tetracycline).

• Uses: Antibiotics are commonly used to treat infections like pneumonia, strep throat, and urinary tract infections.

3. State that some bacteria are resistant to antibiotics which reduces the effectiveness of antibiotics:

• Antibiotic Resistance:

  • Bacterial Resistance: Some bacteria can evolve mechanisms that make them resistant to the effects of antibiotics, rendering treatments less effective or ineffective.

  • Causes of Resistance:

    • Overuse or misuse of antibiotics (e.g., not completing a full course).

    • Over-prescription by doctors.

    • Inappropriate use in agriculture (e.g., in livestock).

  • Example: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a well-known example of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

4. State that antibiotics kill bacteria but do not affect viruses:

• Bacterial vs Viral Infections:

  • Antibiotics and Bacteria: Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections because they target specific components of bacterial cells, like cell walls or protein synthesis.

  • No Effect on Viruses: Antibiotics have no effect on viruses, as viruses lack structures like cell walls and operate differently from bacteria.

  • Treatment for Viruses: Viral infections (e.g., flu, common cold) are typically treated with antiviral drugs, which work differently than antibiotics.

5. Explain how using antibiotics only when essential can limit the development of resistant bacteria such as MRSA:

• Responsible Use of Antibiotics:

  • Essential Use: Antibiotics should only be prescribed when necessary to avoid unnecessary exposure of bacteria to the drug.

  • Limiting Resistance Development:

    • When antibiotics are used unnecessarily or incorrectly, it increases the chances of bacteria developing resistance.

    • Using antibiotics only when necessary reduces the opportunity for bacteria to adapt and evolve resistance mechanisms.

  • Example: MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) developed resistance to methicillin due to misuse and overuse of antibiotics. Limiting unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions helps prevent the spread of such resistant strains.