Question

Which of the following are true? (1) aspirin is an analgesic as well as an antipyretic (2) some disinfectants can be used as antiseptics (3) sulphadiazine is a synthetic antibacterial (a) 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 2 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1,2 and 3

Short answer

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Step-by-step solution

Analyze Statement 1

Statement 1 says that aspirin is both an analgesic and an antipyretic. An analgesic is used to relieve pain, while an antipyretic is used to reduce fever. Aspirin is known to perform both functions, making this statement true.

Analyze Statement 2

Statement 2 suggests that some disinfectants can be used as antiseptics. Disinfectants and antiseptics are both used to prevent infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of pathogens. The main difference is that antiseptics are safe for use on living tissues, whereas disinfectants are usually used on inanimate objects. Sometimes, a chemical can serve both purposes depending on its concentration, making this statement true.

Analyze Statement 3

Statement 3 states that sulphadiazine is a synthetic antibacterial. Sulphadiazine is a sulfonamide, a class of synthetic antimicrobial agents, and is used for its antibacterial properties. Therefore, this statement is true as well.

Conclude the True Statements

Given that all three statements are verified to be true based on their respective definitions and properties, we conclude that the correct option is the one that includes statements 1, 2, and 3.

Key concepts

Analgesic and Antipyretic

Aspirin is a well-known drug that falls under both the categories of analgesics and antipyretics.
Analgesics are medications designed to relieve pain. They work by interfering with the brain's ability to perceive pain signals. This makes them ideal for treating headaches, muscle pain, and inflammation.
On the other hand, antipyretics reduce fever. They achieve this by affecting the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates temperature, to lower the body's overall temperature.

• Common analgesics include medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
• Aspirin, however, is unique because it serves a dual purpose.
• Beyond pain relief, it is also effective in reducing fever.

So, when you take aspirin for a fever or common pains, it addresses both symptoms effectively, confirming its status as both an analgesic and an antipyretic. This multifaceted action makes aspirin a valuable drug in medicine.

Disinfectants and Antiseptics

Understandably, disinfectants and antiseptics play crucial roles in controlling infections. However, they have specific applications that often confuse people.
Disinfectants are chemical agents used primarily on non-living objects and surfaces. They are potent and designed to kill or inhibit harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mold on surfaces.
Antiseptics, in contrast, are meant for use on living tissue, such as skin. They clean wounds, apply to hands for sanitation, and protect against infections without causing damage to living tissues.
Versatility of Some Substances
Certain chemical agents can serve as both disinfectants and antiseptics. A good example is hydrogen peroxide, whose effectiveness depends on its concentration:

• High concentration: Suitable as a disinfectant for surfaces.
• Lower concentration: Safe and effective as an antiseptic for cuts and scrapes.

In this way, understanding the proper application and concentration of these chemical agents is essential for effective infection control and maintenance of hygiene.

Synthetic Antibacterial Agents

The role of synthetic antibacterial agents cannot be overstated in medicine. These compounds are chemically created to either kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria.
One well-known synthetic antibacterial agent is sulphadiazine. Belonging to the sulfonamide class, these agents are structurally modified to mimic para-aminobenzoic acid, a compound necessary for bacterial growth.
This structural trickery prevents bacteria from producing folic acid, an essential vitamin for their growth, effectively slowing down or stopping bacterial reproduction.

• Sulphonamides are broad-spectrum antibacterials, meaning they can act against a range of bacterial infections.
• Their synthetic nature allows for targeted approaches, improving the efficacy of treatment and reducing side effects.
• Despite their effectiveness, there is a growing concern regarding resistance, emphasizing the need for careful prescription and usage.

Ultimately, synthetic antibacterial agents have revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections, saving countless lives and improving health outcomes globally.