Antibiotics are essential medications used in the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. However, improper or unnecessary use of antibiotics is the primary driver of antibiotic resistance—a severe threat to public health. Let’s learn more about this class of medication to better understand and protect your health.
1. Why Didn’t the Doctor Prescribe Antibiotics for Me?
Not all infections can be cured with antibiotics. In addition to bacteria, infections can also be caused by viruses and fungi—and each type of pathogen requires a different medication.
In fact, the majority of common illnesses that make us feel unwell are caused by viruses, such as:
– Seasonal flu
– The common cold
– Most cases of coughs and sore throats
– Many cases of viral diarrhea and stomach aches
– Ear infections (frequently seen in young children)
– Even more severe symptoms, such as mild pneumonia, prolonged coughing, and multi-day fevers, are also mostly viral.
In many cases, it is impossible to immediately determine whether an infection is bacterial or viral through a routine physical examination alone. Your doctor may need to perform additional tests (such as blood or sputum tests) to ensure effective medication use and minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance.
2. What Is Antibiotic Resistance?
Antibiotic resistance does not mean your body becomes resistant to the medication; instead, the bacteria themselves have evolved to bypass its therapeutic effects. When bacteria become resistant, antibiotics lose their effectiveness, allowing the bacteria to continue to multiply within the body. In severe cases, some bacteria are now becoming resistant to all available antibiotics.
Misusing or overuse of antibiotics is one of the leading causes of this condition. The consequences include:
- Many serious infections will become highly difficult or impossible to treat.
- Surgical procedures will become significantly more dangerous.
- Minor wounds could lead to severe, life-threatening infections.
- Mild illnesses that used to be easily treated with antibiotics will become stubborn and more dangerous.
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3. Core Principles of Antibiotic Use
To ensure your safety, you must adhere to the following principles when taking antibiotics:
- Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a doctor.
- If you truly need antibiotics, strictly follow the prescription guidelines—take the right dose, at the right times, and complete the full course. Do not stop taking the medication even if you feel better after the first few doses.
- Don’t share your medication with others, even if they the exact same symptoms as you.
4. Potential Side Effects of Antibiotics
- Common side effects: Skin redness, rashes, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, etc.
- Severe cases may include:
- Severe, life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
- Adverse interactions with other medications you are currently taking.
- Infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria, including Clostridium difficile (C. diff)—a bacterium that causes severe diarrhea and colitis, commonly occurring after prolonged antibiotic use.
If you experience any of the side effects listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately for timely advice and support to minimize undesirable effects and avoid more serious complications.
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***Important Notes***
- Do not arbitrarily stop taking your medication or switch to another antibiotic without professional medical guidance.
- Keep track of any unusual symptoms that occur after taking the medication to provide accurate information to your doctor.
- In the event of severe allergic reactions—such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips/face, or widespread hives—go to the nearest medical facility immediately for emergency care.
Antibiotics are powerful allies in treating many bacterial infections, but they are only effective when used the right way, at the right time, and for the right patient. Therefore, if you suspect an infection, you should visit a doctor for proper consultation instead of self-medicating. Using medication correctly not only helps you recover faster but also plays a part in preserving antibiotics—ensuring they remain effective for you and everyone else in the future.
If you have any questions or need further advice, our team of doctors and pharmacists is always ready to support you with dedicated, science-based care.
Medical Consultant: Pharmacist Tran Thi Cam Thu
References:
- BMJ Best Practice: Antibiotics: what you need to know
- CDC: Antibiotic Prescribing and Use: https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/communication-resources/index.html
- National Foundation for Infectious Diseases: https://www.nfid.org/7-key-facts-you-should-know-about-antibiotics/