Amoxicillin is an antibiotic, targeting bacteria. Antiviral medications, however, combat viruses. This core difference dictates their application. Antibiotics disrupt bacterial processes like cell wall synthesis, while antivirals interfere with viral replication, often by blocking specific viral enzymes.
How they differ in action:
Consider their targets: Antibiotics attack bacteria directly, causing their death or preventing their reproduction. Antivirals, conversely, may inhibit viral entry into cells, prevent viral replication within the host cell, or block the release of new viruses. This difference explains why amoxicillin is ineffective against viral infections like the common cold or influenza.
Consequences of Misuse:
Improper antibiotic use contributes to antibiotic resistance–bacteria evolve, becoming less susceptible to treatment. Inappropriate use of antivirals might lead to reduced effectiveness of the specific medication or the development of drug-resistant viral strains, though this concern is less widespread than antibiotic resistance.
