Do antibiotics work against viruses?

Antibiotics are medications designed to target bacteria, not viruses. They work by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth, which makes them effective for treating bacterial infections. Viruses, however, are fundamentally different from bacteria; they do not have the cellular structures that antibiotics target. Consequently, antibiotics have no effect on viruses and are ineffective in treating viral infections like the common cold or flu.

This understanding is crucial for proper healthcare practices, as the misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making bacterial infections harder to treat. Awareness of this distinction helps individuals make informed decisions regarding the use of medications for infections.