antimicrobial
Antimicrobial refers to substances that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These agents can be found in various forms, including medications like antibiotics, disinfectants, and preservatives. Antimicrobials play a crucial role in medicine and public health by helping to prevent and treat infections.
In addition to their medical uses, antimicrobials are also used in everyday products, such as soaps, cleaning agents, and textiles. The effectiveness of these substances can vary, and the overuse of certain antimicrobials, particularly antibiotics, has led to the emergence of resistant strains of microorganisms, posing a significant challenge in healthcare.