Antibiotics are medications designed to treat bacterial infections by killing bacteria or stopping their growth. They are highly effective for conditions like strep throat, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia but do not work against viral infections like colds or the flu. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to resistance, making bacteria harder to treat. It’s essential to use antibiotics only as prescribed by a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What Are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are medications used to treat infections caused by bacteria, a type of germ. While some bacteria are beneficial to our bodies, others can cause illnesses. Bacterial infections occur when harmful bacteria enter and multiply within the body.
How Do Antibiotics Work?
Antibiotics work by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth and reproduction. It’s essential to understand that antibiotics only target bacteria and are ineffective against viruses (like those causing colds or the flu) or fungi.
Types of Antibiotics
Antibiotics come in various forms, including:
- Liquids or pills taken by mouth.
- Topical creams for skin application, many of which are available over-the-counter.
- Injections, administered directly into a muscle.
- IV solutions, delivered through a vein, usually started in a hospital. In some cases, IV antibiotics can be given at home.
What Problems Can Antibiotics Treat?
Antibiotics are used to treat several bacterial infections, such as:
- Skin infections (e.g., impetigo, abscesses)
- Severe acne
- Lyme disease
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Strep throat
- Sinus infections caused by bacteria
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Certain ear infections
- Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea)
How to Give Your Child an Antibiotic
If your child needs antibiotics:
- Follow the doctor’s instructions: Give the correct dosage at the specified times.
- Administer properly: Some antibiotics need to be taken on an empty stomach, with a meal, or with lots of water. Some require sun exposure limitations or changes in other medications.
- Complete the full course: Even if your child feels better, continue with the full course to ensure the infection is entirely treated and does not return.
- Store correctly: Some need refrigeration, while others should be kept at room temperature. Avoid hot places, like a car, and keep all medicines out of children’s reach.
- Measure accurately: Ensure the right dose is given at the right times for the full duration of treatment.
- Follow up: The doctor may want to check if the infection has cleared after the treatment.
What Is Antibiotic Overuse and Resistant Bacteria?
Antibiotic overuse occurs when antibiotics are used unnecessarily, leading to resistant bacteria—strains that no longer respond effectively to treatment. Some bacteria have become resistant even to the strongest antibiotics.
How to Prevent Antibiotic Overuse and Resistance
Doctors prescribe antibiotics only when necessary. Do not insist on antibiotics for viral illnesses like colds or flu. Instead, discuss ways to manage symptoms with your doctor.
If prescribed antibiotics:
- Give them exactly as directed: Don’t stop early, even if your child feels better.
- Use only for the current infection: Never use antibiotics prescribed for one person or condition for another.
- Don’t save leftovers: Dispose of unused antibiotics through a local medicine take-back program.
Possible Side Effects of Antibiotics
Antibiotics can cause side effects like diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, rashes, or yeast infections. Most side effects are mild and subside after completing the medication. However, consult your doctor if your child develops a rash or yeast infection, as these might require additional treatment.
If your child has diarrhea or an upset stomach, ask if they should take probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support intestinal health. In some cases, antibiotics can lead to Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections, causing more severe diarrhea that needs treatment.
When to Call the Doctor
Contact your doctor if:
- Your child doesn’t improve or still has a fever after 48 hours.
- Your child has nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- There is blood in the stool.
- Your child struggles to take the medication.
- Your child develops a new rash or seems to be getting worse.
Seek emergency care if your child has:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the throat or tongue
In rare cases, worsening infections can lead to sepsis, a medical emergency. Trust your instincts—if your child seems sicker than usual or an infection worsens, seek immediate medical help.
Additional Information
Besides treating infections, antibiotics can sometimes prevent them. For example, a child with recurrent UTIs might take a low-dose antibiotic to prevent them from returning. Doctors might also prescribe «prophylactic» antibiotics before surgeries to prevent post-operative infections.