What are the most common types of antibiotics? How do they work? What are their uses, side effects, and proper usage? Find the answers to these critical questions and more in our comprehensive guide.

The Most Common Antibiotic Types and Their Uses

Antibiotics are a crucial group of medicines used to treat bacterial infections. They work by either attacking the cell walls of bacteria or inhibiting their protein production, effectively killing the bacteria or preventing it from reproducing and spreading. These drugs come in various forms, including oral liquids, tablets, capsules, topical creams and ointments, eye drops, and injectable or intravenous formulations for severe infections.

Penicillins: Versatile Antibiotics for Skin, Ear, and Blood Infections

Penicillins are a widely-prescribed class of antibiotics that can treat a variety of skin conditions, as well as middle ear, kidney, and blood infections. They are particularly effective against Staphylococci and Streptococci bacteria. However, some bacteria have become resistant to penicillins due to overuse. Common penicillin antibiotics include phenoxymethylpenicillin, dicloxacillin, amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, ampicillin, nafcillin, oxacillin, penicillin V, and penicillin G. Potential side effects of penicillins include nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, headache, yeast infections, and liver disease. Penicillins may also cause allergic reactions like rashes, hives, and breathing difficulties, and can interact with oral contraceptives, aspirin, and probenecid.

Cephalosporins: Treating Gonorrhea, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, and More

Cephalosporin antibiotics are often prescribed to treat conditions like gonorrhea, pelvic inflammatory disease, and sinusitis. They are also used for urinary tract infections (UTIs), epididymo-orchitis, and cellulitis. Cephalosporins are frequently prescribed to people allergic to penicillin. Common cephalosporin antibiotics include cefaclor, cefazolin, cefadroxil, cephalexin, cefuroxime, cefixime, cefoxitin, and ceftriaxone.

Tetracyclines: Anti-Inflammatory Antibiotics for Bacterial and Skin Infections

Tetracyclines are a group of antibiotics with anti-inflammatory properties that can treat various bacterial infections, including those affecting the chest, urethra, and pelvis. They are also used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis. Common tetracycline antibiotics include doxycycline and minocycline. However, tetracyclines should not be used by children under 12 or pregnant/breastfeeding individuals, as they can stain developing teeth. These antibiotics can also cause esophageal irritation, so it’s important to take them while sitting or standing upright and with plenty of water. Tetracyclines may also interact with medications like systemic retinoids, diuretics, lithium, anticonvulsants, rifampicin, and oral contraceptives.

Macrolides: Treating Resistant Strains and Sexually Transmitted Infections

Macrolide antibiotics have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making them an effective option for treating strains of bacteria that are resistant to penicillin. They are commonly used to treat skin, soft tissue, respiratory, and sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia. Healthcare professionals may prescribe macrolides to treat conditions like acne, rosacea, erythrasma, and pityriasis lichenoides. Examples of macrolide antibiotics include erythromycin, clarithromycin, azithromycin, fidaxomicin, and roxithromycin. However, macrolides, especially erythromycin and clarithromycin, can interact with certain medications.

Proper Use and Potential Side Effects of Antibiotics

It’s essential to follow healthcare professionals’ instructions carefully when taking antibiotics, as improper use can lead to antibiotic resistance and other complications. Potential side effects of antibiotics can include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as more serious effects. Patients should report any adverse reactions to their healthcare provider immediately.

The Importance of Antibiotic Stewardship

Given the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, it’s crucial that antibiotics are prescribed and used judiciously. Healthcare providers play a vital role in antibiotic stewardship, ensuring these important medications are used only when necessary and that patients understand the proper way to take them. By working together, healthcare professionals and patients can help preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for generations to come.