Proper Use of Antibiotics to Prevent Drug Resistance
PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER ABOUT THE PROPER USE OF ANTIBIOTICS
Antibiotics should only be taken when necessary, for the specific bacterial infection they are prescribed for, and in the full dosage and duration ordered by a healthcare professional. Using antibiotics only when needed (avoiding them for viral infections) and completing the entire course ensures that all target bacteria are killed, preventing the survival of partial bacteria that can mutate, multiply, and become resistant to antibiotic drugs.
Key Principles for Proper Antibiotic Use:
- Avoid Using for Viruses: Antibiotics do not treat viral infections like colds, the flu, most sore throats, and bronchitis.
- Follow Prescriptions Exactly: Take the medication as prescribed, do not skip doses, and complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.
- Never Share or Save Leftovers: Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else, or use saved, leftover medication for a new illness.
- Prevent Infections: Proper hand hygiene, safe food preparation, and staying up-to-date on vaccines reduce the need for antibiotics in the first place.
Proper use—also known as antibiotic stewardship—is critical because the misuse or overuse of these drugs accelerates the natural process of bacteria mutating into resistant "superbugs".
Resources:
CDC Antimicrobial Resistance Facts and Stats
CDC Antimicrobial Resistance Communications Toolkit
CDC Antimicrobial Resistance 2019 Antibiotic Resistance Threats
CDC Antimicrobial Resistance Threat Update 2021-2022
Radiolab Podcast -Antibiotic Apocalypse