August 15, 2008

What are antibiotics?

Antibiotics are powerful medicines that are mainly used to treat infections caused by bacteria.
These are known as anti-bacterial drugs.
These drugs cannot fight viruses; there is a special class of medicines called antivirals that specifically fight infections caused by viruses.
There are many classes of antibiotics; each designed to be effective against specific types of bacteria.
When an antibiotic is needed to fight a bacterial infection, the correct antibiotic is needed to kill the disease-producing bacteria.

How can I tell if an illness is caused by a virus or a bacteria?

The symptoms of viral infections are often the same as those caused by bacterial infections.
But it is important that your doctor or health care provider decide if a virus or bacteria is causing the infection.
Sometimes diagnostic tests are needed.

If an infection is caused by a virus, what can be done to relieve the symptoms?

An antibiotic will not work.
You need lots of extra rest.
Drink plenty of fluids (especially water) and eat healthy foods.
Some over-the-counter medications may help while your body is fighting the virus:
Acetaminophen* may help for muscle aches or fever.
Decongestants* may help if you have a stuffy nose.
Cough syrup* may relieve cough symptoms.
Throat lozenges (for older children and adults only) can ease a sore throat.
Ask your doctor about topical analgesic eardrops for ear pain.
Follow package directions for age & dose or your health care providers' instructions.
A cool mist vaporizer may help too.
Keep your home smoke-free. Viral infections (like chest colds, acute bronchitis and most sore throats) resolve on their own but symptoms can last several days or as long as a couple weeks.

Are antibiotics safe?

Yes.

Antibiotics taken as prescribed are generally safe and effective at treating bacterial infections.
Some people are allergic to certain antibiotics, but can usually take other antibiotics if needed.
All medications can have side effects, so be sure to ask about potential side effects and how to manage them.

When are antibiotics needed?

You should take antibiotics-the complete prescription-when your healthcare provider prescribes them for a bacterial infection.
Anti-bacterial drugs are needed when you have an infection caused by bacteria.
These drugs cannot fight infections caused by viruses.

When I feel better can I stop taking the medication?

No.

Not before you complete all the medication prescribed.
The prescription is written to cover the time needed to for your body to completely kill the bacteria.
If you stop taking the antibiotic early, the bacteria that are still alive are more likely to be resistant and could restart the infection - or pass it on to others.

Can I save the antibiotics for the next time I am sick?

No.

Taking incomplete doses of antibiotics will not make you better and will increase your risk for developing resistant bacteria in the future.
Also, your next illness may be caused by a virus instead of bacteria - and antibiotics won't help.

Please talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider if you have any questions.

Messenger Articles