Antibiotic classes
Antibiotics act on bacterial targets such as cell-wall synthesis, ribosomal function, nucleic-acid processes and folate metabolism. Spectrum and resistance patterns vary among drugs.
Open interactive lesson & self-check ↗Antibiotic classes — learning map
Original conceptual SVG · scalableOriginal schematic relationship map for this topic; relationships are organized for study, not intended as an anatomical depiction or a diagnostic algorithm.
Cell-wall targets
Beta-lactams inhibit bacterial penicillin-binding proteins involved in cell-wall cross-linking; activity depends on organism, drug and resistance mechanisms.
Protein synthesis
Macrolides and tetracyclines act on bacterial ribosomal targets through different binding sites and mechanisms.
Nucleic acids and folate
Fluoroquinolones affect bacterial topoisomerases; trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole blocks sequential folate-metabolism steps.
Stewardship
Choice depends on syndrome, likely or confirmed pathogen, susceptibility, patient characteristics, local recommendations and adverse-effect profile.
Reference and next reading
Explore the original curriculum and publisher-hosted resources for full-depth reading; this note is an original schematic introduction, not an exhaustive chapter.