3 facts you should know:

1. Antibiotics fight illnesses caused by bacteria.  They won’t help you if you have a cold or flu.  That is why your Doctor will not always prescribe an antibiotic.

2. You should be careful when taking antibiotics.  Tell your Doctor if you are allergic or have any side effects.  Common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain.

3. Antibiotics are strong medicines.  When they are misused the bacteria can become resistant to the antibiotic. Take antibiotics the way your Doctor tells you. 

You may need antibiotics for:

 Some ear infections

 Some sinus infections

 Strep throat

 Many types of skin infection

 Urinary tract infections

You do not need antibiotics for:

 Most colds and the flu

 Most coughs

 Most sore throats

 Many types of bronchitis

 Runny nose

What to do if you need to take antibiotics

If your Doctor prescribes an antibiotic make sure you know how you need to take it. To protect yourself and your children follow your Doctors instructions.

Here are some tips when taking antibiotics:

 Take all your antibiotics. Don’t stop just because you feel better.

 Take your antibiotics at the time your Doctor suggests.

 Read all warning labels.  Check with your Doctor and the pharmacist what foods you cannot take with the antibiotic.

 Never take antibiotics leftover from an old prescription, or given to you by another person.

View The Truth about Antibiotics brochure in PDF.

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   The Truth about Antibiotics: PDF