Antimicrobial agents
| Antimicrobial agents | |
|---|---|
| Drug class | |
| Class identifiers | |
| Use | Infection control |
| ATC code | Various |
| Biological target | Microorganisms |
Antimicrobial agents are pharmaceutical drugs used to treat and prevent infections caused by microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These agents can be classified into several types, primarily antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics, each targeting different types of pathogens.
Types of Antimicrobial Agents[edit | edit source]
Antibiotics[edit | edit source]
Antibiotics are among the most widely recognized antimicrobial agents and are specifically effective against bacteria. They are subdivided into broad-spectrum and narrow-spectrum antibiotics, depending on the range of bacteria they target. Common classes of antibiotics include penicillin, cephalosporin, macrolide, and quinolone.
Antivirals[edit | edit source]
Antiviral drugs are used to treat viral infections. Unlike antibiotics, they do not destroy their target pathogen; instead, they inhibit their development. Examples of antiviral drugs include oseltamivir for influenza virus, acyclovir for herpes simplex virus, and antiretroviral drugs for HIV/AIDS.
Antifungals[edit | edit source]
Antifungal medications are used to treat fungal infections, which can infect skin, nails, and internal organs. Common antifungal drugs include fluconazole and amphotericin B, which are used to treat conditions like thrush and systemic fungal infections.
Antiparasitics[edit | edit source]
Antiparasitic drugs are used to treat infections caused by parasites such as protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites. These include drugs like metronidazole, which is effective against protozoan infections, and ivermectin, used in the treatment of many helminthic infections.
Mechanisms of Action[edit | edit source]
Antimicrobial agents work through various mechanisms to inhibit or kill microorganisms. Antibiotics like penicillin interfere with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, causing the bacteria to burst. Antivirals may inhibit the replication of viral DNA or RNA. Antifungals can disrupt the cell membrane of fungi, leading to cell death.
Resistance[edit | edit source]
A significant issue with the use of antimicrobial agents is the development of antimicrobial resistance. This occurs when microorganisms evolve mechanisms that protect them from the effects of antimicrobials. Resistance can lead to the failure of standard treatments and the spread of resistant infections.
Usage[edit | edit source]
The use of antimicrobial agents must be carefully managed to minimize the development of resistance. This includes prescribing them only when necessary and ensuring the full course of treatment is completed to fully eradicate the infection.
See also[edit | edit source]
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