- Antibiotics can save lives when necessary but overuse can lead to resistance and side effects
- Each year in the US 2.8 million infections occur due to antibiotic resistant bacteria
- 35,000 people die each year due to antibiotic resistant infections
- Resistance means that the bacteria has developed an ability that keeps the drug from killing them
- Antibiotics do not work on viruses such as colds, flu, bronchitis even if the mucous is yellow or green
- Viruses will usually go away on their own in 1-2 weeks and taking antibiotics will not make you feel better when it is a viral infection. Discuss ways to manage your symptoms with your provider
- Antibiotics can have serious side effects however if your provider has prescribed antibiotics then the benefits outweigh the risks. You should notify your provider right away if you develop a rash or severe diarrhea. Severe diarrhea may indicate an infection due to antibiotic use called C. difficile that needs treatment
- If you are prescribed antibiotics be sure to take exactly as prescribed. Do not stop the medication early even if you are feeling better
- Stay healthy and keep others healthy by good hand-washing, covering your cough and staying home when sick. Also, get any recommended vaccines such as flu and pneumonia shots
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