What term describes substances that are effective against bacteria?

The term that describes substances that are effective against bacteria is antibacterials. These substances are specifically designed to target bacterial infections in the body, inhibiting their growth or killing them outright. Antibacterials can be found in various forms, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and topical treatments.

Antibiotics are a specific type of antibacterial, but the term "antibacterial" is broader and encompasses all substances that fight bacteria, including antibiotics as well as other agents. While antivirals and antifungals are effective against viruses and fungi respectively, they do not target bacteria and therefore would not be accurate in describing substances effective against bacterial infections.