They work by killing bacteria or making it difficult for them to grow and multiply.
Antibiotics are drugs that fight bacterial infections in people and animals. They work by killing bacteria or making it difficult for them to grow and multiply.
Antibiotics can be taken in different ways:
Orally (by mouth): These can be pills, capsules, or liquids
Topically: It can be applied as a cream, spray, or ointment that is put on the skin. It could also be an eye ointment, eye drops, or ear drops.
Through an injection or intravenously: This is often used for more serious infections
What do antibiotics treat?
Antibiotics only treat certain bacterial infections, such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, and E. coli.
You may not need to take antibiotics for some bacterial infections. For example, you may not need them for many sinus infections or some ear infections.
Taking antibiotics when they are not needed will not help you, and they can have side effects.
Your healthcare professional can determine the best treatment for you when you are sick.
Do not ask your healthcare professional to give you antibiotics.
Antibiotics do not work for viral infections.