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. |
