Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of bactericidal drugs?

The assertion that bactericidal drugs require high doses for effectiveness is not a characteristic that defines them. Bactericidal drugs are designed to kill bacteria directly, leading to a decrease in the overall bacterial population. In many cases, they can achieve their effects at therapeutic doses, meaning effective treatment does not always necessitate very high dosages; rather, the focus is on accomplishing the desired bactericidal action while maintaining patient safety.

Additionally, bactericidal drugs operate through various mechanisms, including disruption of the bacterial cell wall or other essential cellular processes, and can be crucial in treating serious infections where immediate bacteria-killing action is needed. Consequently, while dosing can vary based on the specific drug and infection scenario, the primary characteristic that defines bactericidal activity is their ability to kill bacteria effectively, rather than an absolute requirement for high doses.