**Core Concept**
The question pertains to the mechanism of action of various antibiotics, specifically their bactericidal or bacteriostatic properties. Bactericidal agents kill bacteria directly, whereas bacteriostatic agents inhibit bacterial growth and multiplication.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
A bactericidal drug exerts its effect by damaging the bacterial cell membrane or interfering with essential cellular processes. One such example is the antibiotic polymyxin B, which inserts into the bacterial cell membrane, increasing its permeability and leading to cell lysis. This results in the death of the bacterial cell.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the specified antibiotic is typically bacteriostatic, inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria rather than directly killing them.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the mentioned antibiotic is often used to treat fungal infections, and its mechanism of action is distinct from that of bactericidal agents.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the described antibiotic is typically bacteriostatic, acting by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When choosing an antibiotic, it is essential to consider the type of infection (bacterial vs. fungal) and the desired mechanism of action (bactericidal vs. bacteriostatic). This will help guide the selection of the most effective antibiotic.
**Correct Answer: C.**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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