Antimicrobials are a class of drugs and chemicals developed to fight infectious diseases caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or protozoa. These medications have the ability to destroy or inhibit the growth and reproduction of infectious agents, which helps the body cope with the disease.

Antimicrobials include antibiotics, antivirals, antimycotics, and antiseptics. Antibiotics, for example, are designed to fight bacterial infections, while antiviral drugs are used to treat viral illnesses such as the flu or HIV. Antimycotics are used in case of fungal infections, while antiseptics are used to treat wounds and mucous membranes in order to prevent infections.