What do antibiotics primarily target in order to treat infections?

Antibiotics primarily target bacteria in order to treat infections. They work by interfering with specific cellular processes that are essential for bacterial growth and reproduction. This can include disrupting the bacterial cell wall synthesis, inhibiting protein synthesis, or interfering with metabolic pathways unique to bacteria. Unlike viruses, fungi, and parasites, bacteria have distinct structures and biochemical pathways that antibiotics can exploit without harming human cells. This specificity is why antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, as viruses do not have cell walls or the machinery targeted by these drugs. Thus, the focus on bacteria distinguishes antibiotics as a critical tool in treating bacterial infections effectively.