Antibiotics are substances (organic or semi-synthetic), derived from micro-organisms, that are used to kill or inhibit other organisms causing infection. This handbook is a practical guide that presents: the principles of antibiotic use; prophylactic antibiotics; specifics of 20 different types of antibiotics, including dosage regimens, routes of administration, duration of therapy, toxicity and side effects; and basic microbiology laboratory tests. The book is designed to be easy to use and to be a comprehensive reference for all prescribing specialists and practitioners. It includes seven appendices which offer tabular information on treatment of selected diseases. It should be applicable to practices of all physicians who prescribe antibiotic therapy.