ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Broad-spectrum antibiotic

Imagine you have some tiny, but naughty creatures inside your body that are making you feel sick. These creatures are called bacteria and they can cause many kinds of illnesses, like sore throat or ear infection. However, there are some special medicines that can fight these bacteria and help you feel better. These medicines are called antibiotics.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are like very powerful superheroes of the antibiotic world. They can fight many different types of bacteria all at once. For example, imagine these superheroes can punch, kick or even laser beam a lot of different types of bad guys. They can save you from different types of infections, like when you have a cough, fever, or stomach ache.

But, just like superheroes, antibiotics also have a weakness. The more you use them, the easier it is for bacteria to become resistant to them. It's like if the bad guys learn to dodge the superhero's punches or kicks. This is why you should only take antibiotics when your doctor tells you to, and always finish the full course of medicine as directed.

In summary, broad-spectrum antibiotics are very powerful medicines that can fight many types of bacteria at once, but they should only be used when necessary and always under the guidance of a doctor.