The Science of Antibiotics

Most people have had a bad case of the flu, an ear infection, or a wound that has become infected. When these situations occur, doctors will often prescribe some type of antibiotic as a treatment, and improvement is typically noted within the first few days. It’s not magic; it’s the science of antibiotics.

In simple terms, an antibiotic is a chemical substance derived from microorganisms like fungi and bacteria that is used to destroy or inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms. The most common use is in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, though it can also be used to treat minor discomforts and aid in the healing of minor wounds.

There are more than 100 different antibiotics available, but there are several main classes that include such well-known drugs as penicillin and tetracycline. Each one is effective for specific types of infections, as the bacteria that causes the infections vary.

Medical doctors must issue a prescription for the appropriate antibiotic because there are numerous factors to take into consideration. First and foremost, the type of bacteria causing the problem must be determined. In some cases, such as an earache or other common ailment, a doctor will know immediately which antibiotic to prescribe. In some situations, however, like an especially serious case of the flu or pneumonia, or a less common infection, the doctor may require a culture to send to the lab for testing, thereby giving him or her the information needed to issue the specific antibiotic that will fight that bacteria.

Doctors must also note any medicines already being taken by the patient before prescribing an antibiotic, as there could be side effects from combining certain medications that could be dangerous or render the antibiotic ineffective. And the dosing strength, frequency, and schedule must be appropriate for the patient’s medical history and the current infection.

Most antibiotics also have a generic alternative available that cuts the cost considerably for patients whose insurance may not cover the cost of a premium brand. Doctors will often take this into consideration when prescribing a drug. Since the generic antibiotics have the same chemical structure and class as the brand names, it does not alter the treatment if the drug is cheaper but lacks the manufacturer’s name.

Once an antibiotic is prescribed, it is important that the patient note any special requirements, such as taking the medication on a full stomach or only with water. In addition, some drugs must be refrigerated and others stored at room temperature. If kept and taken properly and according to the dosage schedule, as well as taken for the entirety of the time prescribed despite the rapidity of healing, antibiotics are an effective and often speedy way of healing an infection and getting back on the road to health.