Volume 15, Number 2: Fall 2007
Are You Using Antibiotics Correctly?
Ann McLeod, R.Ph., C.Ph., Director of Pharmancy Services and April Johnston, Pharm.D.
When you have a nasty cold, cough, sore throat, or the flu . . . antibiotics aren't always appropriate and can be harmful. Here's why:
- Antibiotics kill bacteria-not viruses, which cause most common colds and respiratory illnesses. An antibiotic will not get rid of these infections or make you feel better.
- When you take an antibiotic incorrectly, bacteria become resistant to it. The bacteria become stronger and harder to kill. Later, when you really do need the antibiotic, it may not work.
To feel better during a viral infection, drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest. A variety of over-the-counter medicines can help treat your symptoms: antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants and expectorants, pain relievers, and fever reducers.
Always read labels first. If you have a preexisting medical condition (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease), check first with your doctor about the right medicine for you.
Telephone your doctor's office if you have fever greater than 100.5 degrees, shortness of breath, ear pain, severe headache, extremely sore or red throat with white or yellow patches, skin rash, chest pain, or no improvement after 7-10 days.
If you are prescribed an antibiotic, take all of the medicine even if you start feeling better. Do not save medicine for later! You'll just be contributing to stronger bacteria.