Using antibiotics wisely
Officials urge consumers to take antibiotics properly or risk worsening the growing problem of drug-resistant bacteria:
• Bugs become resistant through misuse or overuse of drugs, which raises the odds bacteria will mutate or learn to become resistant and survive. As the bacteria reproduce, the entire population may become resistant.
• Do not use antibiotics for illnesses caused by viruses. The drugs kill only bacteria.
• Viral or bacterial? No sure way to tell. In general, colds, sore throats, coughs and runny noses with little or no fever are caused by viruses. Ask the doctor to be sure, especially for children.
• Accept that if you have a virus, the only treatment may be to tough it out. Most viruses clear up in days. Do not pressure the doctor for pills if you don’t need them.
• Take all pills prescribed. Do not stop taking them when you feel better. That may allow a few remaining bugs to become resistant.
• Do not save leftover drugs. Do not take someone else’s antibiotic; it may not kill the bug you have.