How Do Bacteriostatic Agents Compare with Bactericidal Agents?
The primary distinction between bacteriostatic and bactericidal agents lies in their mode of action. While bactericidal agents kill bacteria outright, bacteriostatic agents merely inhibit their growth. The choice between the two depends on the clinical context. For instance, in immunocompromised patients, bactericidal agents might be preferred to rapidly eliminate the infection. However, in some cases, bacteriostatic agents may be sufficient, especially if they exhibit fewer toxic effects.
