Antibiotics are a group of medicines designed to combat bacterial infections by either eliminating or halting bacterial growth. They are ineffective against viruses, such as those causing the common cold or flu. Misusing or overusing antibiotics can result in antibiotic resistance, making it more difficult to treat bacterial infections. It’s crucial to use antibiotics only when prescribed by a medical professional and to adhere to the suggested dosage and duration.
Available antibiotics at Canadian pharmacy include:
Amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag): A penicillin-derived antibiotic effective for various bacterial infections, such as ear, nose, throat, and urinary tract infections. Amoxicillin is frequently prescribed due to its broad-spectrum efficacy and minimal side effects.
Cephalexin (Keflex): A cephalosporin antibiotic utilized for skin, bone, and respiratory infections. Cephalexin is recognized for its potent bactericidal properties, targeting a wide range of bacteria and providing rapid symptom relief.
Azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pak): A macrolide antibiotic that combats various bacterial infections, including respiratory, skin, and sexually transmitted infections. Azithromycin is favored for its user-friendly dosing schedule, often requiring fewer doses and a shorter treatment course.
Doxycycline (Vibramycin, Oracea): A tetracycline antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as acne, urinary tract infections, and some sexually transmitted diseases. Doxycycline is also employed for malaria prevention and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.
Levofloxacin (Levaquin): A fluoroquinolone antibiotic for addressing bacterial infections like pneumonia, sinusitis, and skin infections. Levofloxacin is highly potent against various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria but should be used cautiously due to possible side effects.
Clindamycin (Cleocin): A lincosamide antibiotic for treating skin and soft tissue infections, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Clindamycin is often prescribed for individuals allergic to penicillin or those in need of alternative treatment options.
Metronidazole (Flagyl): A nitroimidazole antibiotic effective in treating anaerobic bacterial infections and protozoal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and giardiasis. Metronidazole targets a specific group of bacteria and protozoa and is frequently combined with other antibiotics.