Why is it becoming more difficult to treat bacterial infections with antibiotics?

Due to random mutations occurring in bacterial DNA during replication of bacteria, a new strain of resistant bacteria is formed, which is capable of breaking down the antibiotic, so the infection is not cured. As a result, another antibiotic has to be used. But over the years, the number of antibiotics that can cure infections are decreasing due to increased antibiotic resistance from bacteria, and new antibiotics take years to develop, whereas mutations happen much faster. This resistance is as a result of the overprescription of antibiotics.

Answered by Tanvi M. Biology tutor

1913 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Briefly describe the key differences and similarities between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells


How would you test for the presence of glucose?


Cycloheximide inhibits translation. Describe the process of translation.


What are the differences between meiosis and mitosis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences