Drugs

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. They work by interfering with bacterial cell processes, such as cell wall synthesis or protein production.

Viruses have a different structure and life cycle from bacteria. Antibiotics target bacterial-specific processes, such as cell wall synthesis, which viruses lack. For instance, antibiotics won't cure influenza (flu), which is caused by the influenza virus.

Overuse of antibiotics creates selective pressure, favoring the survival and reproduction of bacteria that are already resistant. This increases the proportion of resistant bacteria in the population.

MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a well-known example. It's a strain of Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to many commonly used antibiotics, including methicillin.

Antibiotic resistance reduces the effectiveness of antibiotics. Infections caused by resistant bacteria are more difficult to treat, require stronger or alternative antibiotics, and can lead to longer hospital stays and increased mortality.

Using antibiotics only when essential is a key strategy. This reduces the selective pressure on bacteria to develop resistance. Doctors should only prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections, and patients should complete the full course to kill all bacteria.

Failing to complete the full course of antibiotics may leave some bacteria alive. These surviving bacteria are often the most resistant and can then multiply and potentially cause a recurrence of the infection, but now with resistant bacteria.