Which class of medication is used specifically to treat bacterial infections and can lead to photosensitivity?

The class of medication used specifically to treat bacterial infections is antibiotics. Antibiotics are designed to target and kill bacteria or inhibit their growth, making them effective for a wide range of bacterial infections. Many antibiotics have a known side effect of photosensitivity, which means they can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, making a person more prone to sunburn or skin reactions when exposed to UV rays. This side effect is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients to understand, as it can lead to recommendations for sun protection while on these medications.

Antidepressants, narcotics, and NSAIDs serve different purposes: antidepressants primarily manage mood disorders, narcotics are used for pain relief, and NSAIDs are anti-inflammatory medications. While some of these may have their own side effects, they do not specifically target bacterial infections or have a direct association with inducing photosensitivity like antibiotics do. Understanding the role of each medication class is essential for effective patient care and safety.