Antibiotics - What You Need To Know

Summary

Antibiotics are powerful medicines that fight bacterial infections, either killing bacteria or preventing their reproduction. While they are essential in treating bacterial diseases, they do not work against viral infections like colds, flu, or sore throats (except in cases of STDs). Improper use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making infections harder to treat. It’s important to follow prescribed instructions, complete the full course of treatment, and avoid saving or sharing antibiotics. Misuse could lead to resistant bacteria, such as MRSA, which are difficult to cure.

Takeaways

• 😀 Antibiotics are powerful medicines that fight bacterial infections.
• 😀 Antibiotics can either kill bacteria or prevent them from reproducing.
• 😀 Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, such as colds, flu, and most coughs.
• 😀 Taking antibiotics when they aren't needed can lead to bacteria developing resistance.
• 😀 Misusing antibiotics increases the risk of antibiotic-resistant infections like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).
• 😀 It is crucial to follow the prescribed instructions when taking antibiotics, including dosage and timing.
• 😀 Even if you feel better, you must finish the full course of antibiotics to avoid the bacteria surviving and causing a reinfection.
• 😀 Do not save antibiotics for later use or share them with others.
• 😀 Antibiotics should only be used for bacterial infections, not viral ones.
• 😀 Proper antibiotic use can save lives, but misuse can do more harm than good.

Q & A

What are antibiotics used for?

Antibiotics are powerful medicines used to fight bacterial infections. They either kill bacteria or prevent them from reproducing.

Can antibiotics treat viral infections?

No, antibiotics do not treat infections caused by viruses, such as colds, flu, most coughs, and bronchitis, unless caused by certain bacteria like STP.

What could happen if you take antibiotics when you have a viral infection?

Taking antibiotics for a viral infection can do more harm than good, as it may increase the chances that bacteria in your body will become resistant to antibiotics later on.

What is antibiotic resistance?

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria become resistant to the effects of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat.

What is MRSA, and why is it important?

MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of bacteria that causes infections resistant to several common antibiotics, which makes it more difficult to treat.

Why is it important to follow the prescribed directions for antibiotics?

Following the prescribed directions ensures the full effectiveness of the antibiotics. If you stop treatment too early, some bacteria may survive and cause reinfection.

What happens if you stop taking antibiotics before finishing the course?

If you stop taking antibiotics too soon, some bacteria may survive, potentially leading to reinfection.

Is it safe to save antibiotics for later use?

No, you should never save antibiotics for later use. You should only take the prescribed amount as directed by your healthcare provider.

Can I use someone else’s prescription of antibiotics?

No, you should never use someone else’s prescription. Antibiotics should only be taken as prescribed for your specific infection.

What should you do if you feel better before finishing your antibiotics?

Even if you feel better, you should finish the entire course of antibiotics to ensure that all the bacteria are eliminated and reduce the risk of reinfection.