Prescription Antibiotics: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever been handed a pill for an infection, you’ve dealt with a prescription antibiotic. These medicines fight bacteria that your body can’t beat on its own. Using them right can clear an infection fast, but misuse can lead to resistance, longer illness, or unwanted side effects.

How Prescription Antibiotics Work

Antibiotics target bacterial cells in different ways. Some stop bacteria from building cell walls, causing them to burst. Others block the proteins bacteria need to grow. The result is a rapid drop in the number of harmful germs, letting your immune system finish the job.

Not every infection needs an antibiotic. Colds, flu, and most sore throats are caused by viruses, and antibiotics won’t help there. That’s why doctors ask about your symptoms, run tests, and only prescribe when a bacterial cause is clear.

Choosing the Right Antibiotic and Using It Safely

When a doctor prescribes an antibiotic, they consider the infection type, the bacteria likely involved, and your health history. For example, Keftab (a brand of cephalexin) is often used for skin infections, urinary tract infections, and ear infections. Our Keftab guide breaks down dosage, common side effects like stomach upset, and tips to avoid missing doses.

Here are three simple rules to keep you on the safe side:

• Take the full course. Even if you feel better after a few days, stopping early lets surviving bacteria grow stronger.
• Follow the schedule. Space doses exactly as prescribed; missing a dose can reduce the drug’s effectiveness.
• Watch for reactions. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, or mild rash. If you notice severe rash, difficulty breathing, or jaundice, call a doctor immediately.

Storing your antibiotics properly also matters. Most need to stay at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Throw away any leftovers after the expiration date—old pills may lose potency.

Our tag page also features articles on related topics that can help you make smarter choices. The “How to Save Big on Brand‑Name Prescription Drugs in 2025” post shows ways to cut costs without compromising safety, while the “Prescription Savings: CanadaDrugsDirect vs. Domestic Chains” comparison helps you spot real deals.

Remember, antibiotics are a shared resource. Using them responsibly protects you, your family, and the community from resistant bacteria that are harder to treat. If you’re ever unsure whether an antibiotic is right for you, ask your pharmacist or doctor for clarification before you start.

Stay informed, follow the plan, and you’ll be back to feeling normal faster and safer.