Sick? Think You Need an Antibiotic? Think Again.

Before this, many people died from illnesses like pneumonia, scarlet fever, and the plague.

You may think you need an antibiotic when you feel sick. But in most cases, you do not need an antibiotic. You may have a cold, the flu, or bronchitis. These are all caused by viruses. Antibiotics do not kill viruses. If you take too many antibiotics when they are not needed, antibiotics may not work when you do need them. Overuse of antibiotics has produced germs that are harder to kill.

How can you stop overuse of antibiotics?

• Do not expect you will always get antibiotics from your doctor when you are ill.
• Do not take an antibiotic for a cold, cough, or flu.
• Never take antibiotics prescribed for someone else.

Ask these questions if your doctor prescribes an antibiotic:

• Do I need it??
• What is the name of the antibiotic??
• How many days should I take it??
• Do I take it with food??
• Are there any side effects??
• Is it okay to take this antibiotic with other medicines?

Be sure to let your doctor know if you are taking over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. OTC medicines are bought without a prescription.

Always take these steps when taking an antibiotic:

• Take it exactly as your doctor told you.
• Take it until it is gone. Do not stop taking the medicine because you feel better.
• Never save it to use later.