Scientists at the University of Exeter report that some antibiotics inflict a curious effect on certain bacteria — the drugs actually boost the bacteria, helping them live longer. Scientists uncovered that some antibiotics help relieve stress and help stop the decline of bacterial populations when they are dying out. In other words, more bacteria survive for longer periods in comparison to populations with no exposure to the antibiotic.
On a related antibacterial note, the rise of antibiotic resistance in recent years has rendered many antibiotics ineffective against certain infections. Untreatable infections could be the biggest global cause of death by 2050.