TL;DR
- Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not viruses like colds/flu.
- Misuse drives resistance; incomplete courses and unnecessary use are common problems.
- Use only when prescribed appropriately; follow directions exactly.
What is antibiotic resistance?
Resistance occurs when bacteria evolve ways to survive antibiotics. Over time, some antibiotics become less effective, making infections harder to treat.
When antibiotics help
- Confirmed bacterial infections (e.g., strep throat, some UTIs, bacterial pneumonia).
- Specific clinical syndromes where bacterial cause is likely and benefits outweigh risks.
Common misconceptions
- “I need antibiotics for a cold.” — Colds are viral; antibiotics won’t help and can cause harm.
- “If I feel better, I can stop.” — Stopping early can allow bacteria to rebound and select for resistance.
- “Leftover antibiotics are fine for later.” — Using old antibiotics or sharing them is unsafe.
Risks and side effects
Antibiotics can cause diarrhea, allergic reactions, and rare but serious effects depending on the drug class. They can disrupt normal gut flora.
How to use antibiotics responsibly
- Use only when prescribed for you; don’t pressure clinicians for antibiotics.
- Follow dose, timing, and duration exactly; don’t skip or double doses.
- Report side effects and seek advice if not improving.
- Don’t use leftovers or share antibiotics.
Disclaimer
This article is informational and not medical advice. Follow local guidance and your prescriber’s instructions.