What are "antibiotics" primarily used for?

Antibiotics are primarily used to treat infections caused by bacteria, making this the correct answer. Bacterial infections can lead to various illnesses, and antibiotics function by targeting the specific processes within bacteria, ultimately inhibiting their growth or killing them outright. This action helps the body to effectively combat the infection.

On the other hand, options that refer to treating viral infections or relieving pain focus on entirely different medical needs. Viruses do not respond to antibiotics; instead, antiviral medications are utilized for viral infections. Additionally, pain relief is often managed with analgesics, and inflammation can be addressed with anti-inflammatory medications rather than antibiotics. Understanding the specific roles of these different classes of medications is crucial in providing effective patient care and ensuring proper treatment protocols.