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The antibiotics interfere with chemical reactions that bacteria need to survive, but that human cells do not employ. In penicillin, a chemical binds to the enzymes that are supposed to help in the maintenance of the bacterial cell walls. So it impedes the repair process until finally the cell wall fails and the bacterium dies. Human cells do not use those enzymes.
Wiki User
∙ 11y ago
Wiki User
∙ 15y agoBecause penicillin is baticidal (i.e. it kills bacteria). It works in a ver specific way on their cell walls. As viruses don't have cell walls, penicillin has no action on them.
This means no more antibiotics for colds!
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoPenicillin does not affect viruses so it is a waste of time taking it in these circumstances. It can be counter productive to use antibiotics "just in case" they help, as this is likely to increase the number of bacterial strains which adapt to become resistant to antibiotics in common use. This is how we come to have problems like MRSA and ad campaigns saying "antibiotics will not cure a cold".
Wiki User
∙ 15y agoPenicillin has no effect on viruses but damages the cell wall of bacteria.
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Does penicillin works against influenza virus?
no, antibiotics kill bacteria/fungi not virus'
Can penicillin cure parasites?
Penicillin cannot kill intestinal parasites or insects.
What does penicillin treat in a cat?
You should really know what "bug" is causing the problem as penicillin doesn't not kill a virus. This might be a virus. Best to see and ask the vet.
Is penicillin for a virus?
No. Penicillin will have no effect at all on a viral infection.
Does a steam mop kill bacteria and viruses?
It can kill germs and bacteria IF it is hot enough but it cannot kill a virus.
Is penicillin good for bacterial and virus infections?
No Penicillin is not effective on viral infections.
Does penicillin kill fungus-caused diseases?
No. Penicillin only kills bacteria.
Why is no standard is given for E coli treated with penicillin?
because it is a virus
Does penicillin kill bacteria on gums?
Yes, penicillin is often prescribed for gum and tooth infections.
Does penicillin kill e coli?
Yes
How is penicillin removed from the blood?
Penicillin cannot be removed from the blood. You would just need to wait for the penicillin to pass through the system. Be careful if you are allergic to penicillin.
Can a virus kill you?
Yes a virus can kill you, as you know virus there is no antibiotic to kill the virus. There are diseases such as viral meningitis, where its meningitis in a virus form where it can kill one very quickly. It all depends on the virus and the severity of it.
