Which type of drug is a sulfa drug?

Sulfa drugs are classified as antibiotics. They were among the first synthetic antimicrobial agents developed and are primarily used to treat bacterial infections. Sulfa drugs work by interfering with the bacteria's ability to produce folic acid, which is essential for their growth and reproduction. This mechanism allows them to effectively inhibit bacterial growth, making them useful in treating a variety of infections.

In contrast, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are primarily used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever, but they do not have antibacterial properties. Analgesics are used to relieve pain but also do not address bacterial infections. Antihypertensives are medications aimed at managing high blood pressure and have no role in antibiotic treatment. Thus, the categorization of sulfa drugs as antibiotics is accurate based on their pharmacological effects and intended use in medical treatment.