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AntimicrobialsAntimicrobial AgentsNameWalden University
ANTIMICROBIALS 2There are different categories of antimicrobials. These different categories have different uses depending on the type of organism that they are needed for. Antimicrobials and antivirals are completely different medications. One is used for bacterial infections and the other for viral infections. Here the categories of antimicrobials are discussed, as well as, the difference in viral and bacterial infections.Categories of antimicrobial agentsThere are many categories of antimicrobial agents. These include penicillin’s, cephalosporins, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, and tetracycline’s just to name a few. Each agent has its different uses and adverse effects. Penicillin’s have a low risk of adverse events but usually require IV administration. They are useful in many different bacterial infections, especially staphylococcal and streptococcal. Another agent is a group called cephalosporins.