Antibiotics: Are you using them correctly?

The discovery of antibiotics 

In 1928, Sir Alexander Fleming accidentally contaminated some bacteria samples with mold and noted that the bacteria died back. After a few more years of research based on that discovery, antibiotics have been a vital weapon in our fight against disease.  

Effectiveness and overuse 

Penicillin and the many other antibiotics discovered afterward were so effective on once-deadly bacterial illnesses that many people started to think of them as a cure-all. They are still remarkably effective at treating many bacterial illnesses - but because they have been so widely used and not always correctly, more and more bacteria have become resistant to the effects of the drugs.  

“Anytime antibiotics are used, they can cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance,” said Areej Khan, MD, an infectious disease specialist at TidalHealth. 

Antibiotic guidelines and proper usage 

Dr. Khan shared some antibiotic do’s and don’ts: 

1. Only take antibiotics if you need them - remember, they will only treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as strep throat, whooping cough and urinary tract infection (UTI). If you take them and you don’t need them, they could make you feel even worse. 
2. If your doctor does prescribe an antibiotic medication, take it exactly as prescribed. As your pharmacist if you’re unsure about the best way to take them. Don’t save any for later or share them with others. Take it as long as indicated, and check to see if there are any special instructions. Sometimes, taking antibiotics with food makes them work more effectively, while others need to be taken on an empty stomach. Read the label carefully. 
3. Talk with your doctor if you develop any side effects or allergic reactions while taking an antibiotic. Common side effects can include rash, nausea, diarrhea and yeast infections. These unpleasant side effects are another good reason to only take them when needed. 
4. Make sure your doctor knows what other medications you’re on. Antibiotics can interact and weaken other drugs, which can have serious effects.