Which of the following is a bacteriostatic antibiotic? A) Sulfonamides B) Minocycline C) Trimethoprim D) Fluoroquinolones

Understand the Problem

The question is asking which of the listed options is classified as a bacteriostatic antibiotic. Bacteriostatic antibiotics inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria without killing them outright, so we need to identify the correct option based on this definition.

More Information

Sulfonamides are a class of antibiotics that function by inhibiting bacterial folate synthesis, which prevents bacteria from multiplying. They are considered bacteriostatic because they stop bacterial growth without directly killing the bacteria.

Tips

A common mistake is confusing bactericidal and bacteriostatic antibiotics. Bactericidal antibiotics kill bacteria, while bacteriostatic antibiotics prevent their growth. Remember that sulfonamides are examples of bacteriostatic antibiotics.

Sources

• Bactericidal and Bacteriostatic Antibiotics - IntechOpen - intechopen.com
• Antibiotic Classification & Mechanism - Basic Science - Orthobullets - orthobullets.com