Misconceptions about taking antibiotics - So let’s talk about antibiotics and their use together.

#1

Antibiotics are used to treat infections.

True and false.

Antibiotics are only effective against infections caused by bacteria.

#2

It is always best to take an antibiotic just in case.

Wrong.

Antibiotics do not have a preventive effect. Even in the case of a bacterial infection, they are not always necessary. Moreover, taking an antibiotic carries risks, and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

#3

If I feel better, I can stop my antibiotic treatment.

Wrong.

The prescription must always be strictly adhered to. The bacteria are only destroyed gradually. It is important to finish the treatment to prevent them from multiplying and making you ill again.

#4

If the antibiotic treatment works for me, it will also work for my relatives who have the same symptoms.

Wrong.

Only a doctor can confirm the diagnosis and confirm that antibiotic treatment is necessary. Never take an antibiotic without medical advice

#5

To avoid waste, may I keep the rest of my antibiotic treatment in my medicine cabinet for another time?

No.

Using an antibiotic without a doctor’s diagnosis can lead to an inappropriate and therefore ineffective choice. This can be potentially dangerous to your health and lead to antimicrobial resistance.

#6

It is the people who take a lot of antibiotics who become resistant.

Absolutely wrong.

It is the bacteria that become resistant, never the patient. Explanation: bacteria are transmitted from person to person, from human to animal or via the environment. A patient who has never taken an antibiotic can suffer from an infection caused by resistant bacteria.

#7

Antimicrobial resistance is a natural process.

True and false.

Antimicrobial resistance existed long before the use of antibiotics by humans. Nevertheless, the use of antibiotics greatly increases the development of resistance, which is transmitted between bacteria and thus multiplies.

#8

Antimicrobial resistance increases when these drugs are used too often.

True.

Overuse of antibiotics leads to a selection of these resistant bacteria which have an advantage over others. There is still time to act by reducing the inappropriate use of antibiotics.

#9

Antimicrobial resistance threatens the effectiveness of health care.

True.

This is a major health problem for our society. Inappropriate use of antibiotics increases the proportion of bacteria that can resist antibiotics. As a result, serious illnesses cannot be treated as quickly and effectively as before, and surgical procedures and transplants become more risky.

#10

If my symptoms persist, I need an antibiotic.

Wrong.

It all depends on the cause of the infection you have. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections (colds, flu, etc.). Only your doctor can determine whether antibiotics are necessary.