When Are Antibiotics Effective? - Infographic Cedars-Sinai Skip to content Close Select your preferred language English عربى 简体中文 繁體中文 فارسي עִברִית 日本語 한국어 Русский Español Tagalog Menu Close Call 1-800-CEDARS-1 toggle search form Close Share Email Print CS-Blog Cedars-Sinai Blog When Should I Take Antibiotics Nov 05, 2017 Cedars-Sinai Staff Share Tweet Post It's a common misconception that if you're feeling sick, you should take antibiotics. They can help in some cases, but taking them when it's not necessary can lead to serious consequences. Bacterial vs viral infections Bacteria are small organisms that usually cannot be seen with the naked eye. Some can cause infections, though most don't pose a danger to humans. Good bacteria are beneficial and used in food processing, such as yogurt or wine fermentation. The harmful ones lead to problems like urinary tract infections and Strep throat. Viruses are smaller than bacteria. Some can cause harm. Examples include the common cold, influenza, and viral hepatitis (inflammation of the liver). Read: 5 Myths About Antibiotics When should I take antibiotics You should only take antibiotics to treat infections caused by bacteria. "Antibiotics are not effective against viruses, so they don't treat illnesses like the common cold or flu," says Hai Tran, PharmD, associate director of drug use policy at Cedars-Sinai. Read: Viruses, Bacteria and Fungi: What's the Difference? What if I overuse them Bacteria find ways to resist being killed. They're survivors. Bacteria can build up resistance if antibiotics are overused. When resistance develops, antibiotics may not work as well, or may stop working completely. "Some bacteria have become so resistant that they can't be treated with most antibiotics," says Tran. "These are sometimes called superbugs, and they can be very difficult, if not impossible, to treat." In Discoveries: Pro Solutions to Antibiotics Problems How do I protect myself Avoid getting infections by taking care of your body and practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing. Also, make sure to only take antibiotics when necessary and prescribed. Taking antibiotics when not needed can lead to antibiotic-resistant infections in the future. Do not take medication not prescribed to you. If a medication is prescribed to you, take it as directed. Follow the instructions on the label and as explained by your pharmacist. Ask questions if needed, and finish the medication unless otherwise instructed. Use this infographic to help you remember when antibiotics are useful. If you're feeling under the weather, make an appointment with your primary care physician or visit urgent care. Cedars-Sinai Urgent Care Locations Beverly Hills 8767 Wilshire Blvd - 2nd Floor Beverly Hills, CA 90211 310-248-7000 Culver City 10100 Culver Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232 310-423-3333 Playa Vista 12746 W. Jefferson Blvd. Playa Vista, CA 90094 424-315-2220 Tags Expert Advice Cold and Flu Share Tweet Post Popular Categories Health + Wellness Science + Innovation Community Blog & Magazines catalyst Blog & Magazines Home CS-Blog Blog CS Magazine Cedars-Sinai Magazine discoveries magazine Discoveries Magazine Embracing our Community Embracing Our Community Blog & Magazines catalyst Blog & Magazines Home CS-Blog Blog Embracing our Community Embracing Our Community CS Magazine Cedars-Sinai Magazine discoveries magazine Discoveries Magazine Popular Topics Cancer Women's Health Heart Expert Advice Patient Stories Brain Make an Appointment Find a Doctor Schedule a Callback Call us 24 hours a day 1-800-CEDARS-1 Support Cedars-Sinai Make a Gift Volunteer Share Email Print Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility