Anti-Infective Agents

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Anti-Infective Agents

Anti-Infective Agents (pronunciation: an-tee-in-fek-tiv ay-gents) are a broad class of pharmaceutical drugs used to treat infections caused by microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Etymology

The term "Anti-Infective Agents" is derived from the prefix 'anti-' meaning 'against', and 'infective', relating to the ability to cause infection. Thus, Anti-Infective Agents are substances that act against infections.

Types of Anti-Infective Agents

Anti-Infective Agents can be classified into several types, based on the type of organism they are designed to combat:

  • Antibiotics: These are used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth.
  • Antivirals: These are used to treat viral infections. They inhibit the development of the virus within the host.
  • Antifungals: These are used to treat fungal infections. They either kill fungi or prevent their growth.
  • Antiparasitics: These are used to treat parasitic infections. They kill parasites or inhibit their growth and reproduction.

Related Terms

  • Pharmacology: The study of drugs and their effects on the body.
  • Infection: The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues.
  • Microorganism: A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium, virus, or fungus.

See Also

External links

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