Antibiotic Medicines

Antibiotics are medicines used to treat bacterial infections. They help the body by killing bacteria or stopping bacteria from multiplying, so the infection can clear and symptoms improve. Antibiotics do not work for viral illnesses like the common cold, flu, and most sore throats, so choosing the right medicine depends on the cause of infection.

In this category, you will find antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections, along with supportive options often used during treatment.

Key facts

• Used for: Bacterial infections (not viral infections)
• Forms available: Tablets, capsules, syrups, drops, creams/ointments, and injections (depending on product)
• Treatment choice depends on: Infection site, severity, age, allergies, kidney/liver health, and local resistance patterns

How antibiotics work

Different antibiotics act in different ways, such as:

• damaging the bacterial cell wall
• blocking bacterial protein making
• stopping bacteria from copying their DNA
  This is why one antibiotic may work well for one infection but not for another.

Common infections where antibiotics may be used

Antibiotics are commonly used (when bacteria are confirmed or strongly suspected) for:

• Respiratory infections: bacterial sinusitis, some chest infections
• Urinary tract infections: burning urination, frequent urge, positive urine tests
• Skin infections: boils, infected wounds, cellulitis
• Dental infections: tooth abscess, gum infection
• Ear infections: selected cases, especially with bacterial signs

Types of antibiotics you may see

Some common groups include:

• Penicillins: amoxicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate
• Cephalosporins: cefixime, cefuroxime, cephalexin
• Macrolides: azithromycin, clarithromycin
• Fluoroquinolones: ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin
• Tetracyclines: doxycycline
• Nitroimidazoles: metronidazole (for specific infections)
• Sulfonamides: cotrimoxazole
• Topical antibiotics: mupirocin, fusidic acid (for certain skin infections)

Availability in your store depends on your product list.

Tests doctors may advise before choosing an antibiotic

To select the correct antibiotic and avoid resistance, doctors may suggest:

• CBC (infection markers)
• CRP/ESR (inflammation)
• Urine routine and culture (for UTI)
• Throat swab (selected cases)
• Stool test (selected cases)
• Culture and sensitivity from pus/wound, blood, and urine (when needed)

Safe use tips

• Take antibiotics exactly as advised and finish the full course (even if you feel better).
• Do not use leftover antibiotics or share them with others.
• Do not take antibiotics for a cold/flu unless a doctor confirms a bacterial infection.
• If you have a history of allergy (especially penicillin allergy), inform your healthcare provider.

Possible side effects

Some common side effects include:

• nausea, stomach upset, loose motions
• headache, or dizziness
• skin rash
• yeast infection (in some people)
  Serious reactions are rare but need quick attention.

When to seek urgent medical help

Get medical help immediately if you notice:

• swelling of face/lips, breathing difficulty, severe rash
• severe diarrhea (especially watery/bloody)
• fainting, severe weakness, or confusion
• worsening fever or symptoms not improving as expected

Explore Antibiotic Medicines

Browse this category to find antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections. For best results and safety, the right choice depends on the type of infection and individual health factors.