Why your doctor might not prescribe antibiotics

When you feel miserable, it’s understandable to want to reach for a solution to feel better as quick as possible. So, your brain might turn to antibiotics instead of chicken soup and a good night's sleep. Sometimes antibiotics are the right choice, but they aren’t always the best option. In some cases, they can even make things worse.

Antibiotics are made to treat bacterial infections. Here are some situations where they might be necessary:  

• Strep Throat
• Bacterial Pneumonia
• Certain sinus and respiratory infection 

Antibiotics are not effective against viral illnesses, which include:  

• Common colds
• COVID-19, RSV, and other respiratory viruses  
• Flu  
• Most sore throats 

When a doctor believes your symptoms are caused by a viral illness, antibiotics are not indicated. This is the right decision for your health now and later. Using antibiotics when you don’t need them can cause unwanted side effects, like diarrhea. It can also make bacteria resistant, so the medicine won’t work well when you need it. Consider these important points:  

Over-Prescription Concerns:

One in three antibiotic prescriptions is not needed.* They may not only be unnecessary, but possibly dangerous. Using antibiotics too much can make bacteria resistant to medication. This means the medicine won’t work as well against the bacteria. Only use antibiotics when they're necessary. This helps keep them effective for fighting serious infections when you do need them. 

Potential Reactions: 

The last thing you want to deal with is more discomfort on top of your symptoms. You can develop an allergic reaction to antibiotics at any time. This can happen even if you have taken the same antibiotic before without any problems.  This is why it’s important to use them only when necessary. There are times when antibiotics can help. Keep an eye out for these signs, which might show the need for antibiotics:

When Antibiotics May Be Appropriate:

There are times when antibiotics can help. Keep an eye out for these signs, which might show the need for antibiotics:

• Symptoms lasting more than seven days
• A temperature over 102.5°F  
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Persistent sore throat
• Earache
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Other troubling symptoms

Remember, at First Stop Health, our doctors are here to support you. If you don’t need antibiotics, we can prescribe you other medications to help with your symptoms. These can include cough suppressants, nasal sprays, fever reducers, and decongestants. All to help you feel better.

And if your symptoms aren’t improving after a few days, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a re-evaluation. Your health and wellbeing are our top priorities! 

*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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