Things You Need To Know Before Taking An Antibiotic

Questioning Your Doctor — And Yourself

In case anyone was still confused, let's say this loudly and clearly: antibiotics serve to treat infections and diseases caused by bacteria. Antibiotics do absolutely nothing for viruses, including the common cold, the flu, and many cases of sore throats, sinusitis, and ear infections. The British NHS, on its website, informs patients that "your doctor will only prescribe antibiotics when you need them", yet a recent study found that half of Britain's general practitioners admit to prescribing antibiotics when they know they will not help. A whopping 90 percent of those GPs do so, they say, due to patient pressure. Don't contribute to that problem. 

The UK's Chief Medical Officer Dame Sally Davies, warns: 

"If a doctor says antibiotics are not appropriate for an illness, we should all listen and not pressurize them into giving us unnecessary drugs. Resistance to antibiotics is a real threat."

Rather than asking your doctor if there's anything they can give you, or outright demanding antibiotics, question whether an antibiotic would really benefit you and what you could do instead of taking an antibiotic. Always ask your doctor exactly how the medication they are prescribing you will benefit your health. If your doctor admits to not knowing whether your infection is viral or bacterial, ask to be tested before you agree to taking antibiotics. 

By being a patient who openly identifies themselves as skeptical, you are less likely to be prescribed antibiotics in situations where you don't need them. Inform yourself about the type of antibiotic needed to treat the infection you have as well, and ask questions if you believe you are being prescribed the wrong kind. 

When You Really Need Antibiotics

If you find yourself in a situation where you truly need antibiotics, you are still living at a time where they are available — though indeed, the possibility of running into resistant bacteria is increasing every day. When you are prescribed antibiotics, after ascertaining that they are right for your infection, take them exactly as prescribed by your doctor. 

Never take antibiotics that were not prescribed by a doctor, do not save prescribed antibiotics to take at a time when you have similar symptoms, and never, ever share leftover antibiotics with other people — not being a doctor, you have no idea whether they really need them, and in what dose. 

READ US Pediatricians: Antibiotics are Over-prescribed to Children

If You Are In Hospital

Hospitals are still the most likely location to pick up a superbug. How can you protect yourself from one while you are a patient? Again, your main weapon is asking questions. Question what anti-infection protocols are in place in your hospital, and find out whether they are enforced strictly. If you are not sure whether your doctor or nurse have washed their hands, feel free to ask, and also find out what they are doing to prevent surgical wounds from getting infected. Ask not to use a catheter unless you really need one, and ask for tests if you are being prescribed an antibiotic, to ensure you really need one and are getting the right type.