Antibiotics are powerful medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They work by either killing the bacteria or stopping them from growing. Common examples of antibiotics include penicillin and amoxicillin. It's important to use antibiotics only when needed, as overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance, making infections harder to treat. When prescribed antibiotics, it's essential to follow the doctor's instructions and complete the entire course, even if you start feeling better. This helps ensure that all the harmful bacteria are eliminated. Remember, antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.