Final answer:
Antimicrobials may produce allergic reactions, toxic effects, and suppression of normal flora, all of which are correct. These effects are due to the broad-spectrum activity of antimicrobials and their impact on the body, leading to potential superinfections and adverse reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Antimicrobials can produce several unintended effects, including allergic reactions, toxic effects, and suppression of normal flora. These outcomes are due to the properties of antimicrobials themselves, which are designed to target and eliminate microorganisms that cause infection. While effective in combating harmful bacteria, these drugs can sometimes have adverse impacts on the body's natural ecosystem and health.
When a broad-spectrum antimicrobial is used, it may harm the benign or beneficial microbes that are part of our normal flora. This can lead to a superinfection, where other opportunistic pathogens like Candida (yeast) take over, leading to conditions such as candidiasis. A well-known and potentially serious superinfection is caused by Clostridium difficile, which can result in pseudomembranous colitis.
Toxic effects or adverse reactions can occur when antimicrobials impact the host’s cells or systems. For example, they may inhibit mitochondrial functions within human cells, leading to toxicity. Lastly, allergic reactions are an immune response to a foreign substance in the body, which can occur with any medication, including antimicrobials.