Two Main Types of Drugs That Kill or Help the Body Kill Bacteria

The body contains bacteria, but, occasionally, harmful bacteria gets into the system and makes people feel unwell. Sometimes the body can naturally fight off these bad bacteria, but sometimes it cannot. That is where drugs - in particular antibiotics - come in. According to Family Doctor, antibiotics are strong medicines used to treat infections, including life-threatening and contagious diseases, caused by bacteria. All antibiotics are different, but your doctor will know which one to prescribe depending on the illness. The important thing to remember is that antibiotics treat bacterial infections only and are useless at fighting against viral infections, such as the common cold.

Cephalosporins

• According to E Med Expert, cephalosporins are the most frequently prescribed class of antibiotics. Closely related to penicillin, they contain a beta-lactam ring structure that breaks down the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall and kills bacteria in the body. Cephalosporins are usually prescribed for bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms in places such as, the ears, nose, throat, lungs, sinuses and skin. Cephalosporins are commonly used to treat a variety of bacterial infections such as pneumonia, strep throat, tonsillitis, bronchitis, skin infections and urinary tract infections.

Penicillin

• Penicillin is another popular antibiotic used to kill bacterial infections. Discovered in 1928, Sir Alexander Fleming found penicillin fought off a number of disease-causing bacteria. Since then, penicillin has been commonplace in doctor's surgeries and hospitals. It is prescribed for patients who have common ear infections, throat infections and infected wounds.

Macrolides

• Macrolides are another antibiotic, but it is used to prevent bacteria from reproducing rather than fighting bacteria off. Doctors often use macrolides to treat serious illnesses such as pneumonia in people aged under 65. It is also given to patients who are allergic to penicillin. After taking macrolides, individuals start to feel better within about two to three days. However, there are some side affects including diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.

Fluoroquinolones

• Fluoroquinolones are another antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in the body and work by killing bacteria directly or preventing their growth. According to The Encyclopedia of Surgery, fluoroquinolones are used to treat infections caused by microorganisms, including bone and joint infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, inflammation of the prostate, serious ear infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis and some sexually transmitted diseases. However, fluoroquinolones cannot be given to pregnant woman or children.