medicines

Antibiotic

抗生物質 (Kōsei busshitsu)

A class of medication used to treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses, so they are not prescribed for common colds or influenza. In Japan, antibiotics require a doctor's prescription and are dispensed at a pharmacy. Completing the full prescribed course is essential to prevent antibiotic-resistant bacteria from developing.

Japan has historically over-prescribed antibiotics for respiratory illnesses, but updated guidelines now discourage routine antibiotic use for viral conditions like colds.

In 9 languages

Language	Term
English	Antibiotic
Japanese (日本語)	抗生物質
Chinese (中文)	抗生素
Korean (한국어)	항생제
Portuguese	Antibiótico
Spanish	Antibiótico
Filipino	Antibiyotiko
Thai	ยาปฏิชีวนะ
Vietnamese	Kháng sinh
Romanization	Kōsei busshitsu

Related terms

• Prescription 処方箋
• Antiviral 抗ウイルス薬
• Prescription Drug 処方薬

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