Antibiotics stop bacteria growth or kill bacteria. They help your immune system fight and eliminate bacterial infections. However, antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
Top Prescribed Antibiotics
Per CDC data, the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in the US are:
- Amoxicillin
- Azithromycin
- Amoxicillin/Clavulanate
- Ciprofloxacin
- Cephalexin
- Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim
- Doxycycline
- Metronidazole
- Penicillin VK
- Levofloxacin
Types of Antibiotics
Different antibiotics work in various ways by targeting specific parts or processes in bacteria. Major antibiotic classes include:
- Penicillins (Amoxicillin, Penicillin)
- Cephalosporins
- Macrolides (Azithromycin, Erythromycin)
- Fluoroquinolones (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin)
- Tetracyclines (Doxycycline)
- Aminoglycosides
- Sulfonamides and Trimethoprim
- Antimycobacterials
Proper Antibiotic Use
While antibiotics can be life-saving, improper use can harm gut bacteria and cause resistance where bacteria adapt and become harder to kill. Antibiotics should only be used when truly needed and taken exactly as prescribed. Never take them for viral infections like colds or flu.
For proper use:
- Only take antibiotics prescribed by your doctor
- Carefully follow prescription instructions
- Complete the full course even if you feel better
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