If he/she says that antibiotics are not necessary, then your infection is likely mild and will get better on its own. Remember that if antibiotics are not designed to help with your type of illness, then they won’t work but you could still get side effects.
If your doctor does prescribe antibiotics to you, follow the instructions on your prescription. Also, read the directions on the medication leaflet.
Ensure that you don’t take your antibiotics at a different frequency or quantity than those recommended for your treatment by your doctor.
Do not take antibiotics that were prescribed for someone else. If they were good for your friend or family member, it doesn’t mean that they will be appropriate for you too. Some antibiotics are not suitable if you have certain medical conditions or allergies, or if you are a pregnant / breastfeeding woman.
Do not take antibiotics that were previously prescribed to you to treat a past infection. Not all infections can be treated with antibiotics or with the same type of antibiotic.
Don’t mix antibiotics with other medications that you may be taking, as they may react unpredictably. Let your doctor know of any other drugs that you are taking to ensure that it’s safe for you to take antibiotics.
If it happens that you start feeling better even if you haven’t finished your antibiotics course, don’t stop your treatment and continue taking your antibiotics until prescribed by your doctor. If you stop them too soon, some bacteria may survive and the infection may come back.
Did you know…? Sometimes the best treatment for your infection may be over-the-counter drugs to relieve your symptoms, e.g. fever reducers, saline nasal spray, or simply a period of good rest. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.