What class of drugs is used to block the growth and reproduction of bacteria?

The class of drugs that is specifically designed to block the growth and reproduction of bacteria is antibiotics. Antibiotics work by targeting specific bacterial processes or structures, such as cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, or DNA replication, thereby inhibiting the ability of bacteria to multiply and flourish. This action helps the immune system to effectively eliminate the bacterial infection.

In contrast, antifungals are used to treat fungal infections and work by targeting the specific components of fungal cells. Antivirals are designed to combat viral infections by interfering with the viral replication process. Anticoagulants are medications that prevent blood clotting and are unrelated to treating infections, whether bacterial, viral, or fungal. Understanding the specific role of antibiotics in managing bacterial infections is crucial for effective pharmacological treatment.