Antibiotics are medicines that help stop infections caused by bacteria (also called bacterial infection). These include strep throat, urinary tract infections and many skin infections. They do not work for colds or flu, which are caused by virus germs.
When antibiotics are used correctly, they can help save lives and shorten illnesses. However, when taken incorrectly or when they are not needed, they can encourage the development of resistant bacteria, which makes future infections harder to treat.
The first antibiotic, salvarsan, was discovered in the early 1900s. Since then, many more have been made, and they have greatly improved people’s lives by reducing deaths from disease and adding 23 years to the average life expectancy.
But antibiotics can have side effects, including pain in the stomach and diarrhoea. If you get serious side effects, contact your GP or NHS 111.
It is important to take antibiotics only when they are prescribed, and to finish the full course of medicine – even if you feel better before it is all over. Don’t share antibiotics with others or buy them online, and don’t use expired ones. Saving tablets “for later” could also lead to resistance and allow the bacteria to become more resistant to them. Always tell your doctor about any other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter and herbal remedies and vitamins, as these may interfere with the effectiveness of some antibiotics. This helps ensure that you receive the right kind of treatment for your infection and avoids unnecessary antibiotic resistance.
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