Antibiotics are medications that fight bacterial infections by killing bacteria or stopping their growth. These medicines have saved countless lives since their discovery, treating infections from strep throat to pneumonia. However, antibiotics only work against bacteria—they are ineffective against viruses like colds and flu. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics has led to antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve to survive these medications, creating dangerous 'superbugs' that are difficult to treat. Health Canada and provincial health authorities promote antibiotic stewardship, encouraging doctors and patients to use antibiotics only when necessary to preserve their effectiveness.