How Do Antibiotics Work Through The Body

Follow the advice of your doctor to ensure their efficacy.

- B.G. Ramaprasad

Antibiotics are medicines that fight bacterial infections in people and animals. They work by killing the bacteria or by making it hard for the bacteria to grow and multiply.

Antibiotics can be taken in different ways: Orally (by mouth). This could be pills, capsules, or liquids. Topically. This might be a cream, spray, or ointment that you apply on your skin. It could also be eye ointment, eye drops, or ear drops. Through an injection or intravenously (IV). This is usually for more serious infections.

Antibiotics only treat certain bacterial infections, such as throat infections, urinary tract infections, and E. Coli that infect our guts. You may not need to take antibiotics for some bacterial infections. For example, you might not need them for many sinus infections or some ear infections.

Taking antibiotics when they're not needed won't help you, and they can have side effects. Your doctor can decide the best treatment for you when you're sick. Don't ask your doctor to prescribe an antibiotic for you.

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) and flu most cases of bronchitis

What Are The Side Effects Of Antibiotics?

The side effects of antibiotics range from mild to very severe. Some of the common side effects include:

Rashes

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 and development of infections that are resistant to antibiotics.

Call your doctor if you develop any side effects while taking your antibiotics.

Why Is It Important To Take Antibiotics Only When They're Needed?