Antibiotic synergy

Antibiotic Synergy

Antibiotic synergy (pronunciation: an·ti·bi·ot·ic syn·er·gy) refers to the phenomenon where two or more antibiotics used together have a greater effect than the sum of their individual effects. This concept is crucial in the field of pharmacology and microbiology, particularly in the treatment of multi-drug resistant bacterial infections.

Etymology

The term 'antibiotic synergy' is derived from the Greek words 'anti' meaning 'against', 'bios' meaning 'life', and 'synergos' meaning 'working together'.

Mechanism

Antibiotic synergy occurs when two or more antibiotics interact in a way that enhances their bactericidal effect. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as inhibition of enzymes that degrade the antibiotic, or through the inhibition of bacterial resistance mechanisms.

Clinical Significance

Antibiotic synergy is often used in clinical practice to treat severe and complex infections, particularly those caused by multi-drug resistant bacteria. By using a combination of antibiotics, clinicians can achieve a greater bactericidal effect, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes.

Related Terms

• Antibiotic antagonism
• Combination therapy
• Pharmacodynamics
• Pharmacokinetics

See Also

• Antibiotic resistance
• Bactericidal
• Bacteriostatic

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Antibiotic synergy
• Wikipedia's article - Antibiotic synergy

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