Antibiotics are medicines that kill or slow bacteria. They treat infections like strep throat, urinary tract infections, skin infections and some pneumonia. They do not work on viruses such as colds, flu, or most sore throats. Using antibiotics correctly helps them keep working when you need them.
Common types include penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones. Your doctor chooses based on the likely bacteria, infection site, allergies and drug interactions. Sometimes they use a narrow antibiotic after tests show the exact bug; other times they start a broad one right away.
Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria adapt and drugs stop working. Misuse like skipping doses, saving pills, or taking antibiotics for viral illnesses speeds resistance. This makes future infections harder and more expensive to treat.
Follow these simple rules: take the exact dose and finish the full course, even if you feel better; never use leftovers or someone else's prescription; tell your doctor about allergies and other medicines; avoid alcohol with some antibiotics. If side effects like severe diarrhea, rash, or breathing trouble occur, stop and seek medical help immediately.
For certain infections, tests such as throat swabs, urine cultures or bloodwork help pick the right drug. When possible ask for targeted treatment instead of guesswork. If your infection is serious or recurrent, a specialist can offer better options.
Pregnant people, young children, older adults, and those with kidney or liver disease need extra care. Some antibiotics can harm pregnancy or growing teeth, and doses often change with kidney function. Always mention those conditions before a prescription.
If you have a high fever, spreading redness, pus, severe pain, shortness of breath, confusion, or symptoms that get worse after starting treatment, seek care fast. For mild infections, call your provider if symptoms last longer than 48 to 72 hours. Don't try to self-prescribe antibiotics online without a proper evaluation.
Keep a list of past antibiotic reactions. Use a pill organizer if you take multiple drugs. Finish any prescribed course but call if you get new symptoms. Ask your pharmacist about food interactions. For minor viral illnesses, rest, fluids, fever reducers, and time are usually best.
Want more detail? Read our posts on Cephalexin alternatives, terbinafine options, and safe online pharmacies for reliable access. Those articles walk through specific drug choices, risks, and where to get verified meds.
Antibiotics save lives when used right. Ask questions, follow directions, and keep records. If you're unsure, reach out to your healthcare team before taking any antibiotic.
Quick checklist: confirm the diagnosis, note allergies (penicillin is common), ask about side effects and interactions, check whether you really need an antibiotic, and learn what to watch for after you start. If traveling abroad, carry a copy of prescriptions and store meds as directed. Keep children's antibiotics in original packaging and never give adult doses to kids.
If resistance is suspected, doctors may switch drugs or order cultures to guide therapy. Stay informed.
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