By Dr Archana Jadeja
Consultant Internal Medicine
Jan 29, 2026
Antibiotics were first discovered in 1928 by Alexander Fleming, with penicillin being the first identified. Nearly a century later, antibiotics are widely used to treat a broad range of conditions, both severe and mild. They remain the first line of defence against bacterial infections. However, improper use of antibiotics—especially for non-bacterial conditions—can lead to several serious problems. These include unpleasant side effects and, more importantly, the development of antibiotic resistance, which poses a serious threat to global public health.
Antibiotics are powerful medications designed to fight bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or preventing them from multiplying. They work by targeting specific components of bacterial cells, such as their cell walls, protein production mechanisms, or DNA replication processes. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections such as the common cold, flu, and most sore throats. They should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional for confirmed bacterial infections.
You should take antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor for a confirmed or suspected bacterial infection. Common conditions that may require antibiotics include strep throat, urinary tract infections, certain types of pneumonia, skin infections, and some sinus infections. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and may order tests to confirm whether a bacterial infection is the cause. Antibiotics don’t treat viruses—misuse leads to resistance.
Failing to complete your full antibiotic course can allow surviving bacteria to multiply again, potentially causing your infection to return stronger than before. This incomplete treatment can also contribute to antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve to survive antibiotic exposure, making future infections harder to treat. Even if you feel better after a few days, it's crucial to take all prescribed doses for the full duration to ensure all harmful bacteria are eliminated.
While moderate alcohol consumption doesn't reduce the effectiveness of most antibiotics, it's generally advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment. Certain antibiotics like metronidazole and tinidazole can cause severe reactions when combined with alcohol, including nausea, vomiting, headaches, and rapid heart rate. Alcohol can also weaken your immune system and may worsen side effects like stomach upset or dizziness, potentially slowing your recovery.
Common side effects of antibiotics include digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhoea, bloating, and stomach pain. Some people may develop yeast infections because antibiotics can disrupt the body’s natural balance of beneficial bacteria.
Other possible side effects include skin rashes, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe reactions such as difficulty breathing, a severe rash, or persistent diarrhoea, as these may signal an allergic reaction or a serious complication.
Many individuals start to feel better within 48 to 72 hours after beginning antibiotic treatment, although this may vary based on the type of infection and the specific antibiotic prescribed. Some improvement may be noticed sooner, while certain infections may take longer to respond. If there is no improvement after three days, or if symptoms worsen, contact your doctor, as further evaluation or a change in treatment may be necessary.
Some antibiotics are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, while others should be avoided due to potential risks to the baby. Penicillins and cephalosporins are generally considered safe options, whereas tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones are typically avoided. Always inform your doctor if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking any antibiotic. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the safest and most effective option for your specific situation.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve and develop the ability to survive exposure to antibiotics that once killed them. This global health threat makes infections harder to treat, requiring stronger medications, longer hospital stays, and increasing the risk of complications or death. Antibiotic resistance occurs due to improper use, such as treating viral infections and not completing prescribed regimens; as a result, resistant bacteria can survive and multiply.
Taking probiotics alongside antibiotics can help maintain healthy gut bacteria and may reduce common side effects such as diarrhoea and digestive discomfort. Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that help restore the natural balance disrupted by antibiotics. For best results, take probiotics a few hours apart from your antibiotic dose, and continue them for several days after finishing your antibiotic course. Consult your healthcare provider for specific recommendations on probiotic strains and timing.
Antibiotics can interact with various medications, supplements, and even certain foods, potentially reducing effectiveness or causing adverse reactions. Common interactions occur with birth control pills, blood thinners, antacids, and some heart medications. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you're taking before starting antibiotics. They can advise on proper timing, potential interactions, and whether any adjustments to your other medications are needed during treatment.
Proper storage of antibiotics is essential to maintain their effectiveness and safety. Antibiotics should generally be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Therefore, bathroom medicine cabinets are not a suitable option. Liquid antibiotics often require refrigeration, and always check the label or consult your pharmacist for specific storage instructions.
Keep antibiotics in their original containers with labels intact, store them out of reach of children and pets, and never use antibiotics past their expiration date, as they may lose potency or become harmful.
You should never share antibiotics with others or use someone else's prescription, even if they have similar symptoms. Each antibiotic prescription is tailored to a specific person's infection, medical history, weight, and other health factors. What worked for someone else may not be appropriate for your condition and could be ineffective or even dangerous. Sharing antibiotics contributes to antibiotic resistance, may delay proper treatment, and can cause harmful side effects or allergic reactions.
If you forget to take an antibiotic dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule without doubling up. Taking two doses too close together can increase the risk of side effects and doesn't improve effectiveness.
To avoid missing doses, set phone alarms, link taking antibiotics to daily routines like meals, or use a pill organiser. Contact your pharmacist if you're unsure about what to do after missing a dose.
While some natural substances, such as honey, garlic, and certain essential oils, have antimicrobial properties, they cannot replace prescription antibiotics in the treatment of serious bacterial infections. Natural remedies may help with minor issues or prevention, but they lack the targeted potency and proven efficacy of pharmaceutical antibiotics for eliminating specific bacterial infections. Relying solely on natural alternatives for conditions requiring antibiotics can lead to complications, worsening infections, and antibiotic resistance if treatment is delayed. Always consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of bacterial infections.
Preventing infections reduces the need for antibiotics and helps combat antibiotic resistance. Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Stay up to date with recommended vaccinations, which prevent many bacterial infections.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle by ensuring sufficient sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise to boost your immune system. Practice safe food handling, avoid close contact with individuals who are sick, and keep wounds clean and covered. These preventive measures significantly reduce your risk of developing infections that would require antibiotic treatment.
Antibiotics should never be taken without a doctor's prescription or purchased over the counter. Using antibiotics without proper medical guidance can be ineffective or even harmful, as not all illnesses require antibiotic treatment. A doctor can accurately diagnose whether an infection is bacterial and prescribe the appropriate antibiotic, dosage, and duration of treatment. Self-medication can lead to side effects, treatment failure, and the development of antibiotic resistance. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any antibiotic.
