What Is an Antibiotic?
An antibiotic is a medication used to treat bacterial infections by killing bacteria or preventing them from multiplying. Antibiotics are effective against bacterial illnesses but do not treat viral infections such as the common cold, influenza, or most sore throats.
Healthcare providers prescribe different antibiotics depending on the type of bacteria, the location of the infection, and the individual’s medical history.
Why Antibiotics Matter
Antibiotics have saved millions of lives by effectively treating bacterial infections. However, taking antibiotics only when necessary and exactly as prescribed helps reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance, a growing public health concern.
Common Conditions Treated with Antibiotics
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Strep throat
- Skin infections
- Certain ear infections
- Some sinus infections
- Sexually transmitted bacterial infections
Possible Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset
- Yeast infections
- Skin rash
- Allergic reactions
- Changes in normal gut bacteria
How Antibiotics Are Used Safely
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed.
- Complete the full course unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.
- Do not share antibiotics with others.
- Do not save leftover antibiotics for future illnesses.
- Ask your healthcare provider about possible medication interactions.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals assist with medication reminders, monitor for side effects, encourage hydration and nutrition during recovery, observe for worsening infection, and reinforce the importance of completing prescribed treatment.
Home Care Tip
Even if you feel better after a few days, continue taking your antibiotic exactly as prescribed unless your healthcare provider tells you to stop.
Frequently Asked Questions About Antibiotics
Do antibiotics work against viruses?
No. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections and are not effective against viruses such as the flu or common cold.
Can I stop taking antibiotics when I feel better?
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Stopping treatment too early may allow bacteria to survive and increase the risk of recurrent infection or antibiotic resistance.
Why shouldn’t antibiotics be overused?
Unnecessary antibiotic use contributes to antibiotic resistance, making bacterial infections more difficult to treat in the future.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen, you develop severe diarrhea, experience a rash or difficulty breathing, or your infection does not improve as expected.