What are cephalexin, amoxicillin, and penicillin classified as?

Cephalexin, amoxicillin, and penicillin are classified as antibiotics. This classification is based on their primary function of targeting and eliminating bacteria that cause infections. Antibiotics work by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth and reproduction, thus allowing the body's immune system to effectively combat the bacterial infection.

Cephalexin is a type of cephalosporin antibiotic often used to treat infections like skin and respiratory tract infections. Amoxicillin, a penicillin-type antibiotic, is commonly prescribed for a variety of infections, including ear infections and urinary tract infections. Penicillin itself is one of the earliest discovered antibiotics, used for a wide range of bacterial infections.

These medications specifically target bacterial pathogens, which is a key characteristic of antibiotics. They do not affect viral infections, which is why they are not classified as antivirals, nor do they relieve pain like analgesics, or combat fungal infections as antifungals do. Understanding this classification is crucial for proper medication administration and ensuring the effectiveness of treatment plans for bacterial infections.