Safe Antibiotic Use: Using Antibiotics Right to Fight Antimicrobial Resistance

Antibiotics are among the most powerful tools in modern medicine, but their misuse can lead to antimicrobial resistance, one of today’s most pressing public health challenges. This resistance makes it harder to treat common infections, leaving you at greater risk of complications. 

Learn how antibiotics work and get practical advice on using them responsibly to protect your health and the health of others. 

What are antibiotics, and when should they be used? 

Antibiotics are medications that treat bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or preventing them from multiplying. They are highly effective for conditions such as strep throat, urinary tract infections and some cases of pneumonia. 

“Antibiotics do not work against viral infections like the common cold, influenza, bronchitis or most sore throats, which are commonly viral in nature,” said Edward Dix, Pharm.D., R.Ph., C.C.P., C.I.P., F.A.B. “Using antibiotics for viral illnesses won’t make you feel better and can contribute to the larger issue of antimicrobial resistance.” Your doctor can determine whether your symptoms are caused by bacteria or a virus and decide if antibiotics are necessary. 

Why is antimicrobial resistance so concerning? 

Antimicrobial resistance happens when bacteria adapt and become immune to the effects of antibiotics. Over time, this makes once-treatable infections harder to cure, leading to longer illnesses, more hospitalizations and, in severe cases, even death. 

Misusing antibiotics—including taking them for viral infections, stopping treatment early or using someone else’s leftover medication—drives this resistance. Resistant bacteria can spread between people, meaning irresponsible antibiotic use affects entire communities, not just individuals. 

How can I use antibiotics responsibly? 

Using antibiotics responsibly is essential to ensure they remain effective in treating bacterial infections. This starts with following your doctor’s instructions carefully. “Take the prescribed dose at the correct times and complete the entire course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before finishing,” said Dr. Dix. “Stopping antibiotics too soon before completing the full course can leave some bacteria alive, increasing the risk of them becoming resistant.” 

It’s equally important not to share antibiotics or use leftover medication. Antibiotics prescribed for someone else may not be appropriate for your condition, and taking them without proper guidance can harm you or fail to address the infection. 

Only take antibiotics with a valid prescription from your doctor. Self-diagnosing and seeking antibiotics without medical input can lead to unnecessary risks, including side effects and contributing to antimicrobial resistance. 

What is the role of primary care providers in antibiotic use?

Primary care providers are central to safe and effective antibiotic use. They evaluate your symptoms, order tests when necessary and determine whether antibiotics are the most appropriate treatment. If your provider advises against antibiotics, they believe another treatment is more appropriate. Trusting their expertise is a vital step in supporting antimicrobial stewardship efforts.

What is the role of the pharmacist in antibiotic use?

Pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective use of antibiotics. While they are often recognized as the professionals who fill prescriptions, their responsibilities extend far beyond this task. Pharmacists are valuable resources for patients and health care providers alike, offering guidance on medication usage, addressing questions about antimicrobial resistance and providing education on proper antibiotic use. 

In their daily work, pharmacists actively monitor prescriptions to ensure appropriate dosing, duration and selection of antibiotics. They are instrumental in identifying potential medication interactions and preventing the misuse or overuse of antibiotics, which is a key factor in combating the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance. By serving as a bridge between patients and prescribers, pharmacists help to optimize therapy outcomes while promoting responsible medication practices.

What steps can I take to prevent antimicrobial resistance?

Preventing the spread of resistant bacteria starts with good health habits:

• Practice hygiene. Regular handwashing and proper food handling can reduce the risk of infections.
• Stay up to date on your vaccinations. Vaccines protect against diseases that might otherwise lead to bacterial complications.
• Trust your doctor’s advice. If your doctor doesn’t prescribe antibiotics, ask about alternative treatments for your symptoms.
• Support antimicrobial stewardship. Educate others about the risks of antibiotic misuse and the importance of completing prescribed treatments. 

“Antibiotics are a critical resource in modern health care, but their misuse puts everyone at risk,” said Dr. Dix. “By understanding when antibiotics are necessary, following your provider’s instructions and supporting broader efforts to combat resistance, you can help protect these life-saving medications for future generations.”

If you have questions about antibiotics or are unsure whether you need them, schedule an appointment with your Inspira primary care provider. Together, we can promote safer, healthier communities.