Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Do Not
Antibiotics can be very helpful when they are used for the right reason. However, they do not treat every infection. Antibiotics work against bacteria, not viruses. This means they do not help with many common illnesses, including colds, most sore throats, flu, and many cases of bronchitis.
What antibiotics treat
Antibiotics are used to treat certain bacterial infections. Examples may include some cases of:
Strep throat
Urinary tract infection
Pneumonia
Skin infection
Certain sinus infections
Certain ear infections
Some sexually transmitted infections
Certain dental or abdominal infections
The decision to prescribe antibiotics depends on symptoms, exam findings, duration of illness, risk factors, test results, and the likely cause of infection.
What antibiotics do not treat
Antibiotics do not work against viruses, such as those that cause:
Common cold
Flu
COVID-19
Most coughs
Many sore throats
Most cases of bronchitis
Viral runny nose
Many sinus symptoms in the first few days
The CDC notes that antibiotics do not work on viruses, including colds, flu, bronchitis, or runny noses, even if mucus is thick, yellow, or green.
Why unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful
Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can cause problems, including:
Diarrhea
Nausea
Yeast infections
Allergic reactions
Medication interactions
C. difficile infection
Antibiotic resistance
Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria change in ways that make antibiotics less effective. The CDC advises using antibiotics only when needed to protect patients from unnecessary harm and help fight antimicrobial resistance.
Why you may not get antibiotics at every visit
If your symptoms are most consistent with a viral illness, antibiotics may not help and may cause harm. In those cases, your provider may recommend supportive care, symptom treatment, testing when appropriate, and clear return precautions.
When antibiotics may be considered
Antibiotics may be considered when symptoms, duration, risk factors, or testing suggest a bacterial infection. For example, a sore throat may need strep testing. Urinary symptoms may require urine testing. A prolonged or worsening sinus illness may need further evaluation.
What to do if prescribed antibiotics
If antibiotics are prescribed:
Take them exactly as directed
Do not share them with others
Do not save leftovers
Tell your provider about allergies
Ask about side effects
Ask whether they interact with other medications
Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or side effects occur
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent or emergency care for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe weakness, severe dehydration, high fever with worsening symptoms, stiff neck, severe headache, severe abdominal pain, uncontrolled vomiting, severe allergic reaction symptoms, or signs of sepsis.
Can telehealth help?
Yes. Telehealth can help evaluate many mild to moderate symptoms and determine whether testing, antibiotics, supportive care, or in-person care may be needed.
Final thought
Antibiotics are powerful tools, but they are not always the answer. Using them only when appropriate helps protect your health and the health of the community.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, signs of infection, severe allergic reaction symptoms, trouble breathing, or a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
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