Antibiotics are a group of medications used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics work by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria that cause infection. While antibiotics can be useful in treating bacterial illnesses, they are not effective against viral infections such as colds and flu.
The first antibiotic was discovered in 1928 by Alexander Fleming, who observed Penicillium fungi secrete a substance that could inhibit the growth of certain bacteria. Subsequent discoveries led to the widespread use of antibiotics for medical treatment by the 1940s. Today, there are many different types of antibiotics available, including aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin), cephalosporins (e.g., ceftriaxone), penicillins (e.g., amoxicillin), quinolones (e.g., levofloxacin) and tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline). These drugs vary in their effectiveness against different types of bacteria; some may be more suitable for treating one type than another due to differences in their chemical structures and modes of action on microbial cells within humans or animals—a process called antimicrobial resistance or AMR development which is growing increasingly concerning today- particularly with respect to antibiotic overuse leading to superbugs like MRSA and other deadly pathogens with few if any remaining viable treatments available thus far..
When it comes to proper usage, it’s important to take into account potential side effects associated with taking these medications such as gastrointestinal problems like nausea and diarrhea as well as allergic reactions ranging from mild rashes/hives up through life threatening anaphylaxis due caution being necessary when prescribing them particularly among patients at higher risk such as those already immunocompromised individuals prone toward complications anyways! Additionally when prescribed correctly antibiotics should typically only be taken until symptoms improve however – even where full course has been prescribed -it’s important NOT extend beyond this period without consulting your doctor again first..
In conclusion, while antibiotics have revolutionized medicine since their discovery almost 100 years ago – appropriate care must still be taken both during prescription stage and upon consumption thereof so ensure optimal outcomes moving forward!