B3- Fighting disease (drugs)

• What is the primary function of painkillers like aspirin?

  To relieve pain
• How do painkillers differ from antibiotics?

  Painkillers relieve symptoms without tackling the cause, while antibiotics kill bacteria.
• What is an example of a drug that does not cure colds?

  Cold remedies
• What is the function of antibiotics like penicillin?

  They kill or prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Do antibiotics kill viruses?

  No, they do not destroy viruses.
• Why is it difficult to develop drugs that destroy viruses?

  Because viruses reproduce using human cells.
• What impact have antibiotics had on communicable diseases caused by bacteria?

  They have greatly reduced the number of deaths from these diseases.
• What can cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics?


  Mutation of bacteria
• What happens when an infection is treated with antibiotics if some bacteria are resistant?

  Only the non-resistant strains will be killed.
• What is an example of a serious infection caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria?

  MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
• Why is it important for doctors to avoid over-prescribing antibiotics?

  To slow down the development of resistant strains.
• Why should patients finish the whole course of antibiotics?

  To ensure all bacteria are eliminated and prevent resistance.
• What are some sources of drugs originally derived from plants?

  • Aspirin: developed from a chemical found in willow bark.
  • Digoxin: developed from a chemical found in foxgloves.
• How do plants contribute to the development of drugs?

  They produce chemicals to defend against pests that can be used to treat human diseases.
• Who discovered penicillin and how?

  Alexander Fleming discovered it by observing mold that killed bacteria.
• What is the current method of drug production in the pharmaceutical industry?

  Drugs are synthesized by chemists in labs, often starting with plant extracts.
• What is the significance of the phrase "natural selection" in the context of antibiotic resistance?

  It describes how resistant bacteria survive and reproduce.
• What is the role of cold remedies?

  To reduce symptoms of colds
• Why is it important to understand the difference between antibiotics and painkillers?

  To use them appropriately for different types of infections and symptoms.
• How does the mutation of bacteria relate to the concept of natural selection?

  Mutations can lead to antibiotic resistance, allowing resistant bacteria to survive and reproduce.
• What is the importance of studying traditional cures in relation to modern medicine?

  It helps in discovering new drugs derived from plant chemicals.
• What is the chemical produced by *Penicillium notatum* that kills bacteria?

  Penicillin
• What is the significance of the phrase "finish the whole course of antibiotics"?

  It ensures all bacteria are killed and prevents resistance.
• What is the main reason for the development of antibiotic-resistant strains?


  Overuse and misuse of antibiotics