Antibiotics are one of the most effective medical inventions of our time. Before their development, 30% of all reported deaths in the United States were due to a bacterial infection! Scary to think about, right?

Thankfully, an infection diagnosis does not come with such a dire outlook today. The use of antibiotics is a very effective and reliable way to combat bacterial infections.

We see infections all the time here at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood, so we can offer some tips on how to use your prescription appropriately below.

How Do Antibiotics Work in the Body?

If it is determined you need a round of antibiotics for your infection, you will typically get a prescription that lasts seven to 14 days. Once taken, they work by killing off bacteria in your body or slowly stalling its growth until the infection is no longer a threat to you.

It may take a few days for you to feel relief, but once you do, you should start to feel better quickly. A few common reasons for antibiotics are listed below.

Common Infections

• UTI (urinary tract infection)
• Strep throat
• Ear or sinus infections
• Bacterial pneumonias

Should We Be Concerned About Antibiotic Resistance?

Unfortunately, antibiotic resistance is a problem that will only get worse if antibiotic abuse continues. When bacteria is left over in the body after a round of antibiotics, this bacteria changes, adapts and becomes more resilient to treatment.

If this bacteria is passed to another person, the same course of antibiotics is not as efficient. Using your antibiotics responsibly is the best way to avoid contributing to this problem.

Using Antibiotics the Right Way

• Only use antibiotics if they are prescribed.
• Never use someone else’s prescription.
• Take your entire prescription, even if your symptoms subside.

Antibiotics are a great tool when used appropriately! If you think you need a prescription for an infection you have, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood.