At a Glance
- Antibiotics treat bacterial infections only – not colds, flu or most sore throats.
- Take them exactly as prescribed, at evenly spaced times, for the full course.
- Never share antibiotics or use leftovers from a previous illness.
- Misuse drives antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a serious global health threat.
Antibiotics are among the most important medicines ever developed. They have turned once-deadly infections into treatable conditions. But every time they are used unnecessarily or incorrectly, bacteria get a chance to adapt – and the medicines we depend on become less effective.
What antibiotics can and cannot do
Bacterial infections such as many urinary tract infections, bacterial eye and ear infections, strep throat and some pneumonias.
Viral infections – the common cold, flu, most coughs, most sore throats and viral fever.
How to take antibiotics correctly
- 01Only with a prescription
Let a qualified doctor decide whether you need an antibiotic, which one, and for how long.
- 02Keep regular timings
“Twice a day” means about every 12 hours; “three times a day” about every 8 hours. Set reminders so levels in your body stay steady.
- 03Complete the course as advised
Feeling better doesn’t always mean the infection is gone. Follow your doctor’s instructions on duration.
- 04Follow food instructions
Some antibiotics are best on an empty stomach, others with food. Some should not be taken with milk, antacids, iron or calcium.
- 05Don’t double up
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember – unless the next dose is due soon. Never take two doses together.
Antibiotics can upset the balance of good bacteria in the gut and cause loose motions. Curd, buttermilk or a probiotic – taken about 2 hours apart from the antibiotic dose – may help. Ask your doctor first.
The rising threat of antimicrobial resistance
When bacteria survive repeated exposure to antibiotics, they can evolve to resist them. These “superbugs” cause infections that are harder, costlier and sometimes impossible to treat. India and the WHO both recognise antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a major public health priority.
- 1 in 5people may stop an antibiotic early once they feel better
- 0effect of antibiotics on viruses
- 100%of leftover antibiotics should be disposed of safely
Use antibiotics only when needed, exactly as prescribed – so they still work when we really need them.
— MMatrics Product Team
Side effects to watch for
- Mild nausea, stomach upset or loose motions – often settle on their own.
- Rash, itching, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing – stop the medicine and seek medical help immediately.
- Severe or bloody diarrhoea – contact your doctor.
Do not buy antibiotics without a prescription, share them with family members, or use tablets left over from an earlier illness. Always tell your doctor about any previous drug allergy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stop antibiotics when I feel better?
Do not stop on your own. Your doctor decides the duration based on the infection. If you have side effects or feel the medicine isn’t needed, discuss it with them first.
Are antibiotic eye drops also antibiotics?
Yes. Antibiotic eye drops like ofloxacin or moxifloxacin treat bacterial eye infections and should also be used only as prescribed and for the advised duration.
Can I drink alcohol with antibiotics?
It is best avoided. With some antibiotics alcohol can cause serious reactions, and it can slow your recovery in general.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist about your health and before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
