Transcript Antibiotic Myths and Facts

Antibiotic Myths and Facts
• MYTH: Antibiotics help
reduce the length and
severity of a cold or flu
• FACT: Antibiotics have no
effect on colds or flu. The
“best medicine” is rest.
Antibiotic Myths and Facts
• MYTH: All ear infections, sinus
infections and bronchitis need
antibiotics
• FACT: Most of these infections
will resolve on their own. Now
recommend a “wait and see”
approach. Take medication for
pain and symptom relief. If
symptoms don’t improve in a
few days then see your doctor.
Antibiotic Myths and Facts
• MYTH: Bacteria and infections are
not to be feared anymore because
we have good antibiotics
• FACT:
- Overuse of antibiotics is decreasing
their effectiveness
– Many bacteria have developed
resistance to our current antibiotics.
- There are not any new antibiotics
coming in the system
Antibiotics – Proper Use
If you do require an antibiotic:
• Important to finish the entire
prescription even if you start feeling
better
• Do not share or keep unused antibiotics
for another time
– Antibiotics are specific to the infection they
are treating
– Some antibiotics are not safe in children or
for others.