Question: Which of the following is not an antibiotic?
A Penicillin
B Paracetamol
C Erythromycin
D Streptomycin
Answer: Paracetamol
| Aspect | Antibiotics | Analgesic and antipyretic drugs |
| Primary Function | · Antibiotics are prescribed to inhibit or kill the infection causing bacteria | · These drugs relieve pain related symptoms and reduce fever |
| Examples | · Penicillin
· Streptomycin · Amoxicillin · Ciprofloxacin · Erythromycin |
· Paracetamol
· Acetaminophen · Ibuprofen · Aspirin · Naproxen |
| Target | · Bacteria (specific types or broad-spectrum). | · Act on the nervous system or inflammatory processes. |
| Mode of Action | · Inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis
· Protein synthesis |
· Act on the central nervous system (CNS) to reduce pain perception
· Inhibit prostaglandin synthesis |
| Usage | · Used to treat strep throat
· Urinary tract infections · Bacterial pneumonia |
· Used for headaches
· Muscle aches · Inflammatory conditions |
| Side Effects | · Possible side effects are gastrointestinal upset
· Allergic reactions |
· Possible side effects are gastrointestinal irritation
· Liver toxicity |
| Duration of Usage | · Antibiotics are typically used for a specific course of treatment | · Analgesics should be used as needed to manage pain or reduce fever |
| Notable Considerations | · Antibiotics should be taken as prescribed.
· Full course of antibiotics should be completed to avoid any type of bacterial resistance. |
· These drugs should be used according to recommended dosages by the doctor to avoid any possible side effects. |