Antibiotics are used to treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection. They kill bacteria or prevent them from reproducing and spreading. Antibiotics do not work against viral infections – this includes the common cold, flu and most coughs.
You must finish taking your course of antibiotics, even if you feel better.
At the surgery we utilise the Pharmacy First scheme where you can attain antibiotics from your local pharmacy. This often leads to faster treatment and less pressure on GP appointments. You can be treated with a short course of antibiotics for illnesses such as tonsillitis and urine infections.
Antibiotics may interact with:
- alcohol – you should not drink alcohol while taking antibiotics, or for 48 hours after finishing them
- combined oral contraceptives– you may need to use additional contraception like condoms while taking certain antibiotics
- other medications
If you want to check that your medicines are safe to take with your antibiotics, ask your GP or local pharmacist.
Some people have a reaction to antibiotics – in most cases, the reaction is mild to moderate. It can cause:
- a raised, itchy skin rash (urticaria, or hives)
- coughing
- wheezing
- tightness of the throat, which can cause breathing difficulties
These symptoms can usually be treated by taking antihistamines.
In rare cases, an antibiotic can cause anaphylaxis. This is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction needing to be treated quickly.
Non-urgent advice: Phone 999 or attend A&E if:
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling