Take "Anti-inflammatories" for a Cold? Keep These Points on Rational Antibiotic Use in Mind

Antibiotics target bacterial infections and don't work against viruses. The common cold, most acute pharyngitis and influenza are caused by viruses; taking antibiotics neither cures the illness nor helps, and may disrupt the body's normal flora and cause side effects.

Whether a bacterial infection exists and whether antibiotics are needed should be judged by a doctor based on the condition, with tests if necessary, rather than taking them on your own just because there's "inflammation."

Unnecessary use, cutting the dose at will, or stopping early all foster bacterial resistance. Once bacteria resist commonly used antibiotics, you may face having no effective drug when you truly need one, a major global public-health challenge.

Resistance may seem remote but is in fact closely tied to each person's medication habits. One less misuse means one less bit of risk.

Use antibiotics under a doctor's or pharmacist's guidance, take the full dose and full course as directed, and don't increase, decrease or stop midway on your own; don't keep leftover antibiotics for later self-use, and don't share them with others.

Also check drug ingredients to avoid taking several products with the same ingredient at once and causing an overdose. When in doubt, consulting a doctor or pharmacist is the safest approach.