Choose which sections to read
- Antibiotics kill bacteria or slow their growth. They do not work against viruses, such as those causing the common cold and most cases of flu.
- Whether antibiotics are needed depends on the likely infection, severity, vulnerability, resistance and the chance of recovery without them.
- Take exactly the prescribed dose at the right times for the agreed duration; do not make changes yourself.
- Never use leftovers or someone else's antibiotics, and do not buy unreliable medicines online.
- Nausea, diarrhoea and a rash can occur. Breathlessness or swelling of the mouth or throat may be a severe allergy: call 912.
- Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea during or after a course may be caused by Clostridioides difficile and needs assessment.
- Resistance means bacteria become insensitive to an antibiotic, not that your body gets used to it.
- Vaccination, hand hygiene, safer sex, wound care and sensible prescribing help prevent both infections and resistance.
Your response
Two anonymous questions
Did you find what you were looking for?
Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?
Share article
Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?
Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.