What happens to the good bacteria if we take antibiotics?
In: Biology
It depends on the antibiotic.
Some bacteria have certain mechanisms and identifiers that sperate them from other bacteria. We have developed antibiotics that can target specific strains/species of bacteria with minimal inference to the “good” bacteria.
When the causative agent is unknown, generalist “air strike” antibiotics are given.
Look up “Beta-Lactam Ring” to see more about how this specific type of antibiotic interferes with bacteria growth.
Source: nursing major
I’m just paraphrasing a lot of what was taught in my clinical microbiology class. Hopefully someone else can give a more in depth, nuanced example besides “air strike”.
Edit: bacteria exists all over your body. On your skin, inside your nose, on your scalp, etc. Although your gut microbiome is important, it is not the only one.
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