Why Drugs Are Used

Why Drugs Are Used





Treatment of an infection is necessary only when the type or severity of symptoms shows that the immune system has not overcome the infection.



Bacterial infection can be treated with antibiotic or anti­bacterial drugs. Some of these drugs kill the infecting bacteria; others simply prevent them from multiplying.

Unnecessary use of antibiotics may result in the development of resistant bacteria.

Some antibiotics can be used to treat a broad range of infections, while others are effective against particular types of bacteria or in a certain part of the body. Antibiotics are most commonly given by mouth, or by injection in severe infections, but they may be applied topically for a local action.



Anti-viral drugs are used for severe viral infections that threaten body organs or survival. Anti-viral may be used in topical preparations, given by mouth, or administered in hospital by injection.



Other drugs used to fight infection include anti-protozoal drugs for protozoal infections such as malaria; anti-fungal drugs for infection by fungi and yeasts, including Candida (thrush); and anthelmintics to eradicate worm and fluke infestations. Infestation by skin parasites is usually treated with the topical application of insecticides.







Major Drug Groups



• Antibiotics and anti-bacterial drugs (including drugs for meningitis, drug treatment for Hansen's disease (Leprosy), and anti-tubercular drugs)

• Anti-viral drugs

• Vaccines and immunizations

• Anti-protozoal drugs (including anti-malarial drugs)

• Anti-fungal drugs

• Anthelminthic drugs

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