During my time in school, I remember when my friend couldn't kick one nasty cough for weeks.  I thought it had something to do with the fact that she didn't finish her antibiotic prescription. I had talked and talked, but in the end, she did as she pleased.

In today's world, antibiotics are a crucial weapon against bacterial infections, but their effectiveness is under threat due to misuse. 

What Are the Most Commonly Misused Antibiotics?

This blog post highlights five commonly misused antibiotics and provides tips on taking them correctly, ensuring they stay effective when we need them most.

Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic commonly prescribed for various bacterial infections, such as respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. However, its effectiveness can be compromised by improper usage.

Misuse

One common misuse of amoxicillin is stopping the medication prematurely once symptoms improve, rather than completing the full course as prescribed. This can lead to incomplete eradication of the bacteria, allowing them to develop resistance.

Best Way to Take It

Always complete the full course of amoxicillin as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before finishing the medication. Take the medication at evenly spaced intervals to maintain therapeutic levels in your bloodstream.

Azithromycin

Azithromycin is commonly used to treat bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. However, its misuse can contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Misuse

One common misuse of azithromycin is taking it for viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, for which it is ineffective. Using antibiotics unnecessarily for viral infections contributes to the development of resistant bacteria.

Best Way to Take It

Take azithromycin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication prematurely, even if your symptoms improve. Always finish the full course of treatment to ensure the complete eradication of the bacteria.

Ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and skin infections. However, its misuse can lead to serious side effects and antibiotic resistance.

Misuse

One common misuse of ciprofloxacin is self-medication without a prescription or using it for non-bacterial infections. Additionally, taking ciprofloxacin with certain medications or supplements can reduce its effectiveness.

Best Way to Take It

Always take ciprofloxacin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not share your medication with others or use leftover antibiotics from previous infections. Inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Tetracycline

Tetracycline antibiotics, such as doxycycline and minocycline, are commonly used to treat acne, respiratory tract infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. However, their misuse can lead to antibiotic resistance and other adverse effects.

Misuse

One common misuse of tetracycline antibiotics is taking them with dairy products, calcium supplements, or antacids, which can reduce their absorption and effectiveness. Additionally, using tetracyclines for viral infections or inappropriate bacterial infections can contribute to resistance.

Best Way to Take It

Take tetracycline antibiotics on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Avoid taking them with dairy products, calcium supplements, or antacids. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve.

Metronidazole

Metronidazole is an antibiotic commonly used to treat infections caused by certain types of bacteria and parasites, including bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and certain types of diarrhea. However, its misuse can lead to antibiotic resistance and adverse effects.

Misuse

One common misuse of metronidazole is consuming alcohol while taking the medication, which can cause severe reactions, including nausea, vomiting, headache, and rapid heartbeat. Additionally, using metronidazole for non-bacterial infections or inappropriate bacterial infections can contribute to resistance.

Best Way to Take It

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 hours after completing the medication regimen. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, and do not skip doses or stop taking it prematurely. Inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Conclusion

 

Antibiotics are needed for the treatment of bacterial infections, but their misuse can have serious consequences. By understanding the proper usage of antibiotics and following your healthcare provider's instructions, you can help preserve their effectiveness and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. Always consult a medical professional before taking antibiotics and never self-medicate or share antibiotics with others.

If you are unsure about which antibiotic you should take for your infections, you can always book a free consultation with our pharmacists via this link.