Infection & ResponseExam Tips
Exam Tips: Antibiotics vs Other Treatments
Part of Antibiotics and Drug Resistance — GCSE Biology
This exam tips covers Exam Tips: Antibiotics vs Other Treatments within Antibiotics and Drug Resistance for GCSE Biology. Antibiotic function, bacterial resistance evolution, responsible use, global health impact It is section 11 of 19 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Topic position
Section 11 of 19
Practice
20 questions
Recall
24 flashcards
Exam Tips: Antibiotics vs Other Treatments
Common Exam Mistakes to Avoid:
- Don't say: "Antibiotics kill viruses" - they only work on bacteria
- Don't confuse: Antibiotics with antiseptics or disinfectants
- Don't forget: Fleming discovered penicillin, not all antibiotics
- Remember: Resistance is due to natural selection, not bacteria "learning"
Key Comparisons:
| Infection Type | Treatment | Examples | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial | Antibiotics | Pneumonia, strep throat | Can be cured |
| Viral | Antivirals (limited), rest, symptom relief | Cold, flu, COVID-19 | Usually self-limiting |
| Fungal | Antifungals | Thrush, athlete's foot | Can be treated |