Title: Antibiotics: MedlinePlus
Headings: Antibiotics
Antibiotics
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Summary
What are antibiotics?
What do antibiotics treat?
Do antibiotics treat viral infections?
What are the side effects of antibiotics?
Why is it important to take antibiotics only when they're needed?
How do I use antibiotics correctly?
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Content: Antibiotics do not work on viral infections. For example, you shouldn't take antibiotics for
Colds and runny noses, even if the mucus is thick, yellow, or green
Most sore throats (except strep throat)
Flu
Most cases of bronchitis
What are the side effects of antibiotics? The side effects of antibiotics range from minor to very severe. Some of the common side effects include
Rash
Nausea
Diarrhea
Yeast infections
More serious side effects can include
C. diff infections, which cause diarrhea that can lead to severe colon damage and sometimes even death
Severe and life-threatening allergic reactions
Call your health care provider if you develop any side effects while taking your antibiotic. Why is it important to take antibiotics only when they're needed? You should only take antibiotics when they are needed because they can cause side effects and can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance happens when the bacteria change and become able to resist the effects of an antibiotic. This means that the bacteria are not killed and continue to grow. How do I use antibiotics correctly? When you take antibiotics, it is important that you take them responsibly: