Tip Sheet: Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You?

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Antibiotics can help you. But they can also harm you.

Talk to your health care provider to make sure you only use antibiotics for the right reasons — and at the right time. If you do take antibiotics, make sure to take the full amount that you were prescribed.

Do You Really Need Antibiotics?

Older adults often get antibiotics for:

  • Bladder infections
  • Sinus infections
  • Eczema (itchy, red rashes)
  • Wounds, or torn skin, from surgery
  • Colds and runny noses

Before you take antibiotics, ask if you really need them. Also ask about the risks and benefits. Remember, antibiotics don’t work for viral  infections, like the common cold.

Antibiotics Have Risks

Antibiotics can prevent and treat some infections. But they also have these risks:

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Vaginal infections
  • Allergic reactions, such as:
    • Blisters, rashes, and face or throat swelling
  • Damage to nerves and tendons

If you use antibiotics too much or when you don’t need them, they may not work for you someday. This is called “antibiotic resistance.”

Ways to Use Fewer Antibiotics

You are likely to get fewer infections if you:

  • Wash your hands frequently
  • Get your vaccines and flu shots
  • Ask if you can wait a few days before starting antibiotics. Then, call or visit your health care provider again to see if you really do need them.

If you’re in the hospital and have tubes or catheters, ask every day if they can be taken out. This can keep infections away. And make  sure everyone washes their hands when they come to see you.

5 Questions to Consider Before Taking Antibiotics

  1. Do I really need antibiotics?
  2. What are the risks and side effects?
  3. Are there simpler, safer options?
  4. How much do they cost?
  5. How do I take antibiotics so they’re safe and effective?

 

Last Updated October 2016

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