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How to take antibiotics correctly
how to take antibiotics · antibiotic course · antibiotic rules · taking antibiotics
Antibiotics kill bacteria. They do not work on viruses, such as colds and flu.
When a doctor found a bacterial infection and prescribed an antibiotic.
⏱ Duration: a course usually lasts a few days; your doctor will say exactly
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Prescription. Take only the antibiotic your doctor prescribed for this illness.
- Schedule. Find out how many times a day and for how many days. Set reminders.
- Food. Some are taken before meals, some after. Read the leaflet or ask your doctor.
What to bring
- Your prescription or the doctor's instructions
- A list of your other medicines
How it goes
- Take the antibiotic at the same times each day
- Drink it with plain water
- Take it for as many days as your doctor said
- Do not stop the course on your own, even if you feel better
- If you miss a dose, do not take a double one: ask your doctor or read the leaflet
- Do not keep leftovers for later or give them to anyone
What you'll feel
- You usually feel better in 2 to 3 days
- Sometimes you get an upset stomach or nausea
Afterwards
- Avoid alcohol during the course
- If you are no better after 2 to 3 days, tell your doctor
- Ask your doctor whether you need probiotics
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing: call emergency services
- A rash all over or blisters: see a doctor urgently
- Frequent watery stools with blood: see a doctor urgently
Common questions
Do I need an antibiotic for a cold?
Usually not. A cold is a virus. Your doctor decides.
Can I stop the course if I feel better?
No, not on your own. The infection can come back. Ask your doctor.