Page:Choosing Wisely - 5 Questions to ask your doctor before you take Antibiotics.djvu/1

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1 Antibiotics fight bacterial infections, like strep throat, whooping cough and symptomatic bladder infections. But they don't fight viruses—like common colds, flu, or most sore throats and sinus infections. Ask if you have a bacterial infection.

2 Antibiotics can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and more. They can also lead to "antibiotic resistance"—if you use antibiotics when you don't need them, they may not work when you do need them.

3 Sometimes all you need is rest and plenty of liquid. You can also ask about antibiotic ointments and drops for conditions like pink eye or swimmer's ear.

4 Antibiotics are usually not expensive. But if you take them when you don't need them, they may not work for you in the future—and that may cost you a lot of time and money.

5 If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, take them exactly as directed, even if you feel better.

http://ConsumerHealthChoices.org/antibiotics