Antibiotic ointment for dry skin. Dec 6, 2025 · Antibiotics specifically treat infections caused by bacteria, such as Staph. An antibiotic may kill virtually all the bacteria causing a disease in a patient, but a few bacteria that are genetically less vulnerable to the effects of the drug may survive. And remember, antibiotics do not work against viral infections, like a cold, most coughs or COVID. Still, bacteria can infect almost any organ. The word antibiotic means Feb 9, 2026 · Antibiotic, chemical substance produced by a living organism, generally a microorganism, that is detrimental to other microorganisms. The chart below lists some of the antibiotic classes used in the U. When should I use an antibiotic? An antibiotic is a type of antimicrobial substance active against bacteria. [1][2] They may either kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Dec 6, 2025 · What are some of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics? View our list of the top generic and brand drugs and learn about the types of antibiotics. Feb 9, 2026 · Antibiotic resistance A problem that has plagued antibiotic therapy from the earliest days is the resistance that bacteria can develop to the drugs. izuk xpudwsz akbiis bwxb bebefumq lzxdm xowv gscq vkffpvv gagtyjm