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Antibiotics are powerful medications that save lives by treating bacterial infections. They have played a major role in modern medicine since their discovery. However, misuse or overuse of antibiotics can cause more harm than good. In fact, incorrect antibiotic use is one of the main reasons behind the growing threat of antibiotic resistance — a situation where bacteria become resistant to the drugs designed to kill them.
This article explains the right way to take antibiotics, why it matters, and what to avoid to ensure both your personal health and public safety.
What Are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are drugs that either kill bacteria or stop them from multiplying. They are used to treat bacterial infections such as:
- Strep throat
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Pneumonia
- Skin infections
- Certain types of food poisoning
However, antibiotics do not work against viral infections like:
- The common cold
- Flu
- Most sore throats
- COVID-19
Using antibiotics for viral infections is not only ineffective but harmful in the long run.
The Right Way to Take Antibiotics
Use Only When Prescribed
Always take antibiotics only when prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. Do not self-medicate or take someone else’s prescription, even if you have similar symptoms.
Fact: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 30% of antibiotic prescriptions in outpatient settings are unnecessary.
Complete the Full Course
Even if you feel better after a few days, it’s critical to finish the entire course prescribed.
- Stopping early can leave some bacteria alive.
- These surviving bacteria may become resistant and cause the infection to return — sometimes in a more severe form.
Remember: Antibiotics don’t just make you feel better, they aim to kill all the bacteria causing the illness.
Follow the Instructions Carefully
Each antibiotic comes with specific instructions:
- Timing: Some are taken once a day, others every 6 or 8 hours.
- With or without food: Certain antibiotics should be taken on an empty stomach; others need food to avoid stomach upset.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol with many antibiotics, especially metronidazole or tinidazole.
Always read the label or ask your pharmacist if you’re unsure.
Store Them Properly
- Keep antibiotics in a cool, dry place unless told otherwise.
- Refrigerate liquid antibiotics if the label says so.
- Don’t use expired antibiotics — they may not work or could even be harmful.
Report Side Effects Immediately
Antibiotics can cause side effects such as:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rashes
- Yeast infections (due to disturbed gut flora)
In rare cases, antibiotics can trigger severe allergic reactions, such as swelling, breathing difficulties, or anaphylaxis. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
What You Should NOT Do With Antibiotics
- Don’t share antibiotics with others.
- Don’t save leftover antibiotics for future use.
- Don’t take antibiotics for viral infections.
- Don’t pressure your doctor to give you antibiotics if they say it’s not necessary.
The Danger of Antibiotic Resistance
When antibiotics are misused, bacteria adapt and become stronger. This is called antibiotic resistance. Once bacteria are resistant, antibiotics no longer work against them. These “superbugs” can cause infections that are very hard to treat.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
“More than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the U.S. each year, and more than 35,000 people die as a result.”
Some common antibiotic-resistant infections include:
- MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
- Drug-resistant tuberculosis
- Resistant UTIs
What You Can Do to Support Antibiotic Effectiveness
- Practice good hygiene to prevent infections.
- Get vaccinated to reduce the need for antibiotics.
- Avoid unnecessary antibiotics — trust your doctor’s judgment.
- Maintain a healthy gut: Eat fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi during and after antibiotics to restore gut bacteria.
Special Notes for Children and the Elderly
Children and older adults may need adjusted dosages or different forms (liquid vs tablets). Never guess the dose — always follow professional advice.
When to Ask Your Doctor or Pharmacist
Ask these questions before taking antibiotics:
- What bacteria is this treating?
- How long should I take it?
- What should I avoid while on this medicine?
- What are the possible side effects?
Global Responsibility
Using antibiotics correctly is not just about individual health. It’s a global responsibility. When one person misuses antibiotics, it increases the chances of resistant bacteria spreading in the community.
Antibiotics are precious tools in modern medicine, but they are not a quick fix for every illness. Taking antibiotics the right way — as prescribed, for the full course, and only when truly needed — helps protect your health and the health of future generations.
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