Antibiotics are strong medicines that help fight infections caused by bacteria. They don’t work for everything, and you need to take them the right way. Here’s what you need to know about when you might get an antibiotic, why you might need a different one and why, in many cases, antibiotics are not the answer.
What are antibiotics for?
Antibiotics fight infections caused by bacteria. We only give them when needed, and we don’t give them when they won’t work. Antibiotics don’t work for colds, or most coughs or sore throats, which are caused by viruses. Antibiotics can cause unpleasant side effects like an upset stomach (nausea), diarrhea or rash. They kill the healthy bacteria that live and perform important functions in your body, so it’s important to take them only when they are absolutely necessary. Whenever someone takes antibiotics, bacteria living in their body can become resistant to those antibiotics, and those bacteria can spread to others.
Taking antibiotics only when needed helps protect your health and makes sure these life-saving medicines will work for you and others in the future. We’ll answer any questions you have about antibiotics.
Why don’t antibiotics work for a cold?
Antibiotics only work for bacterial infections, like strep throat, skin infections or some urinary tract infections. They don’t work for viral infections, like the common cold, most stomach bugs and even some more serious illnesses flu or COVID-19. Taking antibiotics when you don’t need them can make bacteria harder to treat later. This is called antibiotic resistance, and it can make infections harder to fight.
- Takeaway: Antibiotics don’t work for viruses like the common cold.
Why might you need a different antibiotic?
Not all antibiotics work the same way. Your doctor will pick the right one based on:
- Any allergies to antibiotics
- The type of infection you have
- Your medical history
If one antibiotic doesn’t work, your doctor might switch you to another.
- Takeaway: Different infections need different antibiotics.
Why might you not receive an antibiotic today for certain conditions you may have received one for in the past?
Antibiotic resistance is rising worldwide, making infections harder to treat and leading to more serious illness and even death. In the past, doctors often prescribed antibiotics “just in case” for certain symptoms and conditions. Now, we know this can have serious consequences. Some conditions that used to be treated with antibiotics but usually shouldn’t be today include sinusitis, bronchitis, positive urine cultures without symptoms and agitation in older adults.
Things to know about antibiotics
- Never share antibiotics: Someone else may need a different type or dose.
- Never take antibiotics that were not prescribed for you: Antibiotics are sold over-the-counter in some countries. Take only antibiotics prescribed specifically for your current condition.
- Take them exactly as prescribed: Don’t skip doses or save leftovers for later. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to take your prescription.
- Some antibiotics can affect birth control pills: Ask your doctor if this applies to you.
- Some antibiotics are not recommended during pregnancy: Notify your doctor before taking an antibiotic if you are or might be pregnant.
- Watch for side effects: Upset stomach, diarrhea or rashes are common. Call your doctor if symptoms are severe.
- Available in liquid or pill form: Let your doctor know if you have a preference. If you are prescribed the liquid form, ask your pharmacist if the medication can be crushed or replaced with another formulation.
When to call your doctor when taking antibiotics
It’s important to stay on top of your health while taking antibiotics. If something doesn’t feel right or your symptoms change, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. Call your doctor if:
- You don’t feel better after a few days
- You have a bad reaction
- Your symptoms get worse
If you experience a severe rash, have trouble breathing or feel lightheaded or dizzy, call 911 or go to the closest emergency department immediately. These could be signs of a serious allergic reaction or other emergency.
