Tips While Consuming Antibiotics

Antibiotics are medicines intended to treat infections and prevent serious complications caused by bacteria. These drugs prevent the growth of bacteria by destroying it. These are basically antibacterial drugs that target the cell wall of bacteria and parasites to render them ineffective and prevent infections. Antibiotics can be taken orally or intravenously. While normal infections can be treated using oral antibiotics, serious cases require direct administration in the body.

They are like a double edged sword, where it is inherently required to treat infections, but at the same time, excessive dosage may cause an imbalance in the immune system of the body. Weakened immune system means that body is more susceptible to infections and illness. These are available as over the counter drug or through doctor’s prescription. Since these are necessary for the certain class of infections, there are still some points that needs to be considered while taking the drug in order to avail its full potency and minimize any kind of side effects.

• Make sure to follow complete course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor. The infection may be reduced after administering initial doses, but it is advisable to complete the course in order to negate any chance of re-occurrence.
• Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria and parasites. The drugs are ineffective against any kind of viral disease.
• If you are visiting a doctor, inform them about the other medications you are undertaking so that they can adjust the dose of medicines.
• Do not take over the counter medicines if it is not required as longer usage can lead to resistance.
• Always try to settle for one doctor and follow their prescriptions before opting for a new one.
• Don’t expect oral antibiotics to treat every type of infection. Sometimes, you may require the intravenous administration to cure more serious infections.
• Do not take drugs intended to treat previous infections. Infections can often be assumed of similar nature, hence, wrong administration can further worsen the condition.
• Always inform the practitioner about any type of allergies towards a specific type of drugs to avoid further complications.
• Consult the doctor for right kind of prescription before using it.
• Get a complete information with the doctor about the timings and the frequency at which antibiotics are required to be consumed.
• Never try to perform self-medication even if you are familiar with the infection.
• Stop using over the counter antibiotics if the infection is not reducing and consult a doctor