Antibiotics are a type of medication that are used to treat bacterial infections by either killing the bacteria or preventing their growth. They are a crucial tool in modern medicine for treating a wide range of illnesses, from common infections like strep throat to more serious conditions such as pneumonia. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which is a growing concern in the medical field. Researchers continue to study and develop new antibiotics to combat resistant strains of bacteria and improve treatment outcomes for patients.