mikrobilääkkeen

Mikrobilääke is a Finnish term that translates to antibiotic in English. Antibiotics are a class of antimicrobial drugs used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu.

The development of antibiotics has revolutionized medicine, significantly reducing deaths from bacterial infections that were once common and often fatal. Penicillin, discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928, was the first widely used antibiotic. Since then, many other types of antibiotics have been developed, each with a different spectrum of activity against various bacteria.

Antibiotics are prescribed by healthcare professionals and are available in various forms, including pills, capsules, liquids, and intravenous solutions. It is crucial to use antibiotics only when prescribed and to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve. This helps to ensure that all bacteria are eradicated and reduces the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health concern. It occurs when bacteria evolve mechanisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat. This can lead to longer illnesses, increased hospitalization, and higher mortality rates. Prudent use of antibiotics, including avoiding their use for viral infections and completing prescribed courses, is essential in combating resistance. Inappropriate or overuse of antibiotics in agriculture also contributes to this problem.