5 Things To Know About Antibiotics

At some point in your life you will need an antibiotic. It’s important to read all of the information that the pharmacist provides you with about the drug and to ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Make sure that your doctor and pharmacist are aware of any drugs you are currently taking because it could affect the dosage or types of antibiotics you are allowed to take.

Only Use Prescribed Antibiotics

Only use antibiotics during the period you are prescribed by a doctor. Using leftover antibiotics to cure symptoms that you have could cause drug resistant pathogens to form, enabling antibiotics from effectively working. After taking antibiotics for the appropriate duration, if you have any leftover then throw away the remaining.

Bacterial Infections

Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. So when you or your children have a cold or flu, an antibiotic won’t clear anything up. The cold has to run its course.

Proper Dosage and Duration

 

When an antibiotic is prescribed, take all of it even if symptoms disappear. If treatment stops too soon, some bacteria may survive and re-infect.

Birth Control

Individuals taking birth control pills should use a second method of birth control when taking antibiotics or others drugs that can increase the breakdown of estrogens. Some antibiotics increase the breakdown of estrogens which decrease the levels of estrogen in the body and the effectiveness of the pill.

Digestive Problems

 

Most antibiotics can cause digestive problems. Many doctors recommend that you keep your diet very simple and not to eat complex foods because your body may have a hard time breaking down those elements. Check the side effects label that is disbursed by the pharmacist. If symptoms become chronic, discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately.