Antibiyotie

Antibiyotie are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They are not effective against viruses, fungi, or parasites, and their inappropriate use can cause harm, including side effects and the development of antimicrobial resistance.

Most antibiotics work by either killing bacteria (bactericidal) or inhibiting their growth (bacteriostatic). They act on different bacterial targets, including cell wall synthesis (penicillins, cephalosporins, vancomycin), protein synthesis (macrolides, tetracyclines, aminoglycosides), nucleic acid synthesis (quinolones, rifampin), and metabolic pathways (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole). Antibiotics can be natural, semisynthetic, or fully synthetic. They can be narrow-spectrum, targeting a limited set of bacteria, or broad-spectrum, affecting many species.

Proper use requires a prescription and a full course as advised by a clinician. Overuse and misuse—such as using antibiotics for viral infections or not completing the course—promote antimicrobial resistance, reducing effectiveness for all.

Common side effects include upset stomach, allergic reactions, and yeast infections; serious issues include anaphylaxis and Clostridioides difficile infection. Some antibiotics interact with foods or other medicines and may be unsafe in pregnancy or in kidney or liver disease; dosing adjustments may be required.

Penicillin, discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928 and developed by Florey and Chain, ushered in the antibiotic era. Since then, many agents have been discovered, but resistance has grown, making antimicrobial stewardship a global health priority. Antibiotics are listed on essential medicines lists and are subject to regulation to ensure appropriate use and reduce environmental impact (e.g., in agriculture).