Caution: Antibiotics don’t cure viruses

Antibiotic resistance is a growing problem, both in the United States and across the world. The driving factors behind antibiotic resistance are their overuse and misuse.

Antibiotics can’t treat viruses and are therefore inappropriate for viral infections. However, there are times when patients may have a compromising comorbid condition or a competing bacterial diagnosis. In situations like these, an antibiotic is appropriate and necessary.

In the outpatient setting, at least 30% of antibiotic courses prescribed are unnecessary, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most of this unnecessary use is for acute respiratory conditions such as colds, bronchitis, sore throats caused by viruses and even some sinus and ear infections. Prescribing antibiotics for these conditions put patients at risk for harmful side effects and antibiotic resistant infections. It’s important to only order antibiotics for bacterial infections.

The CDC also estimates that nearly 50 percent of all outpatient antibiotic use is inappropriate. This includes unnecessary use plus inappropriate selection, dosing and duration.

Doctors should prescribe antibiotics only when needed, striving to use the right drug at the right dose and for the right amount of time.

For more information, visit cdc.gov/getsmart/index.html**.

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