"Bacteriostatic" refers to substances that inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria without necessarily killing them. These agents work by interfering with various cellular processes, such as protein synthesis or DNA replication, effectively slowing down bacterial proliferation. Common examples of bacteriostatic agents include certain antibiotics like tetracycline and chloramphenicol. In medical settings, bacteriostatic agents are often used to control bacterial infections, allowing the immune system to eliminate the pathogens. Unlike bactericidal agents, which kill bacteria outright, bacteriostatic agents require the host's immune response to fully clear the infection. This distinction is important in determining the appropriate treatment for different types of bacterial infections.