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Antibiotics are ineffective (while not always) in treating viral (virus) infections because of how the medications take effect. Antibiotics work by changing the body's PH to kill off bacteria. Virus's have to have a host to live and therefore can adapt to the changed in the body. So successfully kill viruses, one has to destroy the DNA within it.

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15y ago

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Is the use of antibiotics an effective treatment for viral infections?

No, antibiotics are not effective in treating viral infections. Antibiotics only work against bacterial infections, not viruses. Treating a viral infection typically involves antiviral medications, rest, and supportive care.


What are not effective treatments for viral infections?

Antibiotics are not effective for treating viral infections because antibiotics target bacterial infections. Other treatments like antiviral medications may be necessary for managing viral infections. Home remedies like herbal supplements or essential oils have not been scientifically proven to effectively treat viral infections.


Why are anti biotics are unhelpful for treating a common cold?

Because antibiotics treat bacterial infections not viral. There are some viral colds like the flu in which antibiotics will work.


Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections because?

Because antibiotics are designed (by nature) to effect bacteria. And bacteria and virsus are two very different things.


Are antibiotics effective to shorten the duration of a cold or flu?

No, antibiotics are not the right medication for a cold. Antibiotics are for treating bacterial infections. The common cold is caused by a virus, not bacteria, and will not be affected by antibiotics. There may be a situation where a doctor may prescribe antibiotics for a secondary bacterial infection after a cold or flu, but the cold itself can not be treated with antibiotics...it is a waste of money to use them for a cold and is also an unnecessary risk of adverse reactions or allergies to the antibiotics.


How do antibiotics treat viral infections?

Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections, not viral infections. They work by targeting and killing specific bacteria or inhibiting their growth. Viruses are different from bacteria and do not respond to antibiotics. Treating viral infections usually involves antiviral medications and supportive care to manage symptoms.


Why are antibiotics ineffective treatments for viral infections?

Viral Infections canno't ever be treated bacause viruses are not alive. They come in contact with a cell and inject their DNA into the cell. They canno't be treated, but however can be controlled with pills and creams.


Why antibiotics could not kill the virus?

Antibiotics are used to fight bacterial infections not viral infections.


Viral infections cannot be treated by?

Antibiotics 


Why antibiotics are ineffective against viral disease?

Antibiotics are only for bacteria. Viruses need antiviral medicines.


Why antibiotics are not effective against cold and flu?

The common cold, like influenza, is a viral infection. Although innoculations can help prevent the flu, antibiotics (which kill bacteria) are only effective in treating bacterial infections (such as pneumonia) that may result.


Why do antibiotics do not help teat viral infections?

Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, they have no affect on viruses. Vaccinations treat viruses.