Antibiotics, also known as antibacterials, are types of medications that destroy or slow down the growth of bacteria. The Greek word anti means "against", and the Greek word bios means "life" (bacteria are life forms).
Antibiotics are used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Bacteria are microscopic organisms, some of which may cause illness. The word bacteria is the plural of bacterium.
Such illnesses as syphilis, tuberculosis, salmonella, and some forms of meningitis are caused by bacteria. Some bacteria are harmless, while others are good for us.
This Medical News Today article contains essential information on what antibiotics are, how they work, what they are used for, their possible side effects, the risk of allergic reactions, and how to use them.
What are the side-effects of antibiotics?
Below is a list of the most common side-effects of antibiotics:
Diarrhea - researchers from Stanford University School of Medicine found that a rise in sugars in the gut following antibiotic treatment allows harmful bacteria to get a foothold and cause infection. Harmful bacteria thrive on sugar.
Feeling and being sick.
Fungal infections of the mouth, digestive tract and vagina.
Below is a list of rare side-effects of antibiotics:
Formation of kidney stones (when taking sulphonamides).
Abnormal blood clotting (when taking some cephalosporins).
Sensitivity to sun (when taking tetracyclines).
Blood disorders (when taking trimethoprim).
Deafness (when taking erythromycin and the aminoglycosides).
Some patients, especially elderly ones, may experience inflamed bowels (a type of colitis) which can lead to severe diarrhea. Clindamycin, an antibiotic used for the most serious infections, commonly has this side effect. However, although much less common, penicillins, cephalosporins and erythromycin might do too.
In August 2012, Scientists from the NY School of Medicine found that babies who are exposed to antibiotics have a greater risk of becoming overweight or obese children. Their study was published in the International Journal of Obesity.
Allergic reactions to antibiotics
Some patients may develop an allergic reaction to antibiotics - especially penicillins. Side effects might include a rash, swelling of the tongue and face, and difficulty breathing.
Allergic reactions to antibiotics may be immediate or delayed hypersensitivity reactions2.
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic you must tell your doctor and/or pharmacist. Reactions to antibiotics can be very serious, and sometimes fatal - they are called anaphylactic reactions.
Use antibiotics with extreme caution and ensure you inform your doctor/pharmacist if:
You have reduced liver or kidney function.
You are pregnant
You are breastfeeding
