10 antibiotic facts

1. What is an antibiotic?

Antibiotics are used to treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection. They work by killing bacteria or preventing them from spreading.

So. What DON’T antibiotics treat? They DO NOT work on viruses

Such as those that cause: colds and runny noses (even if the mucus is thick, yellow, or green); most sore throats (except Strep A throat); flu and COVID-19.

This is because these illnesses will usually get better on their own, without antibiotics. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed will not help you, and their side effects can still cause harm.

3. Discovery

The first antibiotic, penicillin, was discovered by Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming in 1928.

4. How antibiotics work

Antibiotics work by either killing bacteria or stopping them from reproducing.

5. Types of antibiotics

There are many types of antibiotics, including penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, and aminoglycosides.

6. Antibiotic resistance

Antibiotic resistance is a major public health concern, with the World Health Organization (WHO) considering it one of the biggest threats to global health.

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics have led to the emergence of resistant bacteria, making infections harder to treat.

7. Proper use

To slow the development of resistance, it’s essential to use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

8. Side effects

Antibiotics can have side effects, such as allergic reactions, diarrhea, and yeast infections.

9. New antibiotic development

Due to the rise of antibiotic resistance, there is an urgent need for new antibiotic development, with many researchers and pharmaceutical companies working on this challenge.

10. How to take antibiotics

  • Antibiotics should be taken for as long as the doctor has prescribed them. In fact, take them exactly as your doctor tells you, and they have been prescribed
  • Discard any not used
  • Do not give to friends or family or keep them ‘in case’.

Bonus facts

Antibiotic allergies

Doctors should always ask about antibiotic allergies and document them clearly in patient records.

Local guidelines and policies

Doctors should familiarise themselves with local antibiotic guidelines and policies, which may vary between NHS hospitals.

Monitoring and review

Doctors should monitor patients on antibiotics and review their treatment plans to ensure optimal outcomes and minimise the risk of resistance.