What is an antibiotic used for?

Antibiotics are specifically designed to target and kill pathogenic bacteria that cause infections. They work by disrupting various processes essential for bacterial growth and replication, effectively eliminating the bacteria responsible for the illness. Antibiotics do not enhance the immune response, treat viral infections, or reduce inflammation, which are the roles of other types of medications or treatments. Thus, the use of antibiotics is crucial in managing bacterial infections, making it imperative to use them correctly and only when prescribed by a healthcare professional to avoid antibiotic resistance and other complications.