Misconceptions about the use of "antibiotics"

Misconceptions about the use of "antibiotics"

      Most people often misunderstand that antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are the same. For example, when having a sore throat, they tend to buy anti-inflammatory drugs, thinking that the flu is caused by an infection, so taking medication will help it go away faster. In reality, the flu can be caused by both viruses and bacteria.

Misconceptions about the use of "antibiotics" :

• The stronger the antibiotic, the faster the recovery: Common colds are usually caused by viruses, so taking antibiotics or not taking them will have the same outcome because viruses can resolve on their own.

• Unused antibiotics can be stored and taken later: Each infection does not always mean it will be caused by bacteria. And if an infection occurs in different organs, such as having taken antibiotics for a throat infection, it would not be suitable to use leftover antibiotics for a urinary tract infection.

• Capsules are better than dissolvable tablets: Capsule medications are designed to pass through stomach acid and then be dissolved and absorbed in the small intestine. Opening the capsule beforehand will cause the medication to dissolve or may be disrupted by stomach acid.

Dangers of improper antibiotic use :

• Allergic reactions: If someone is mildly allergic to a medication, they may experience itching or a rash, but if the allergy is severe, it can lead to blistering, burning, or even life-threatening reactions.
• Occurrence of complications: Antibiotics kill both disease-causing bacteria and beneficial bacteria in the gut. If the beneficial bacteria are depleted, complications can arise.
• Development of drug-resistant bacteria: Buying and taking antibiotics without proper indication can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.

Safe practices for taking antibiotics :

• If there is a need for antibiotics, it is advisable to consult a doctor for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
• Once antibiotics are prescribed, follow the label and instructions, and complete the full course of medication. If the medication is not taken continuously, because one thinks they are already feeling better and stops taking the medication, it can lead to the accumulation of drug-resistant bacteria, which may result in more severe illness than before.

      Antibiotics are medications used to kill bacteria or inhibit their growth. They cannot kill viruses, relieve inflammation, or alleviate pain like anti-inflammatory drugs do, such as fever reducers and pain relievers. Diseases that do not require antibiotics include the common cold, acute diarrhea, and fresh wounds. Therefore, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are not the same.

Information from : the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Division of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital.

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