Which of the following is NOT typically used to treat autoimmune diseases?

• A. NSAIDs
• B. Corticosteroids
• C. Immunosuppressives
• D. Antibiotics

Answer: (D)

When autoimmune diseases are treated, the aim is to calm the overactive immune system and reduce inflammation, not to kill bacteria. Anti-inflammatory drugs and immune-modulating therapies are used for this reason. NSAIDs relieve pain and swelling by blocking prostaglandin production, helping symptoms without directly suppressing the immune system long-term. Corticosteroids provide broad, rapid suppression of immune activity and inflammation, useful for flares. Immunosuppressives directly limit immune cell activity and proliferation to prevent self-tissue attack. Antibiotics, on the other hand, target bacteria and don’t address the underlying immune dysregulation of autoimmune conditions. They’re used if there’s a concurrent infection, but they aren’t standard therapy to control autoimmune disease itself.