What is one effect of antibiotics on pathogens?

Antibiotics are designed to target and inhibit the growth of specific pathogens, particularly bacteria. They achieve this by interfering with various cellular processes, such as cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, or nucleic acid synthesis, effectively stopping bacteria from multiplying or causing disease. This action helps to control infections and support the body's immune response in clearing the infection.

While some bacteria may develop resistance to antibiotics over time, this is a consequence of antibiotic use rather than a direct effect of the antibiotics themselves. Antibiotics do not promote rapid bacterial growth; rather, their purpose is to combat and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Additionally, antibiotics do have significant effects on pathogens, especially non-resistant strains, making the idea that they have no effect inaccurate.