Antibiotics Aren’t Always the Answer

Sore throats, coughs, sinus pressure and runny noses can be a nuisance, and many people want fast relief. But think twice before running to the doctor for antibiotics.

“Unfortunately, the majority of illnesses are caused by viruses,” said Dr. Terri Kroh, director of Duquesne’s pharmacy, the Center for Pharmacy Services. “They just won’t respond to antibiotic medication.”

This distinction is important to understand because taking antibiotics unnecessarily can create health risks, including the development of bacteria that stop responding to antibiotics.

The misuse of antibiotics is such an important public health issue that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is promoting Get Smart About Antibiotics Week from Nov. 14 to 20. The campaign aims to help people understand when antibiotics should be prescribed and when over-the-counter remedies can provide relief until the body’s natural defenses can restore wellness.

Viral infections that should not be treated with antibiotics include the common cold, the flu, most coughs, some ear infections and sore throats that aren’t the result of strep throat. For these illnesses, the best course of action is to get rest, stay hydrated, use a humidifier and talk to a pharmacist about appropriate over-the-counter remedies to help relieve symptoms.

In the case when an antibiotic is necessary—for example, strep throat or pneumonia—and prescribed by a doctor, it’s important to use the medication exactly as directed. “The tendency is to stop taking the antibiotics when you feel better, usually within a few days of starting the medication,” Kroh explained.

Although it’s easy to forget to finish all antibiotics prescribed, the consequences can include further illness and hospitalization. “Not completing the full course of treatment increases your chances that the bacteria stay in your system, possibly becoming resistant to future antibiotics,” Kroh said.

According to the CDC, such antibiotic resistance is an economic burden on the health care system, costing $20 billion in excess health care costs due to the length of treatment required.

The Duquesne community can learn more about appropriate antibiotic usage—and get prescriptions delivered for free—by calling the Center for Pharmacy Services at 412.246.0963. Staffed by licensed pharmacists, the center is operated by Duquesne’s Mylan School of Pharmacy and serves both the public and the University community.