What happens when you are ‘on antibiotics’?
In fact .. what does being ‘on antibiotics’ mean?
Let’s start with the basics.
What does ‘antibiotic’ mean?
An antibiotic refers to a medication/drug (or any substance) that stops bacteria from growing. The antibiotics you take may be entirely made from natural products. Or, they may include synthetic (made in a lab) substances. Scientists are constantly researching and developing new antibiotics to fight infections.
What is the meaning of ‘being on antibiotics’
It means you are being prescribed (by a doctor) and are taking an antibiotic – as a tablet or drip in hospital – usually for 3, 5 or 7 days. Serious infections may need 2 weeks or more.
So, what are antibiotics for?
Antibiotics are medications that fight bacterial infections. They don’t work against viral infections like a cold, COVID-19 or flu.
Examples of bacterial infections that may need antibiotics
- Strep A throat
- Whooping cough
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Life-threatening conditions caused by bacteria, such pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis (the body’s extreme response to infection).
But what are bacteria?
Bacteria are microscopic germs that live inside your body, on your skin and all around you. Most types of bacteria won’t hurt you. Some types (like some in your gut or on your skin) help keep you healthy.
But certain bacteria can make you sick, with the effects ranging from a mild infection to a severe one that lands you in the hospital.
Why antibiotics are so important?
They help you feel better quicker and can be lifesaving, if the bacteria making you unwell is a serious one.
But when it comes to antibiotics, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Using antibiotics when they’re not needed — like for viral infections or mild bacterial infections that would go away on their own — can lead to unnecessary side effects and contribute to the global problem of antibiotic resistance.
Summary
We have described what happens when you are ‘on antibiotics’. We hope it has been helpful.
Other resource
