The Wild World of Antibiotics

Some antibiotics literally make bacteria explode. Seriously. Antibiotics like

penicillin work by attacking the bacteria's cell wall, preventing it from

building its protective outer layer. Without a strong wall, the pressure inside

the cell builds up until… pop! The bacteria swells and bursts. But they aren't

all the same. Some, like tetracyclines, can permanently stain your teeth

and weaken bones. Others cause a violent reaction if you drink alcohol. And if you mix the

wrong ones, like clindamycin and erythromycin, they can become less effective.

Antibiotics are wild.