The Danger of Antibiotic Overuse

What Happens When Antibiotics Are Overused?

Taking antibiotics for colds and other viral illnesses doesn't work — and it can create bacteria that are harder to kill.

Taking antibiotics too often or for the wrong reasons can change bacteria so much that antibiotics don't work against them. This is called bacterial resistance or antibiotic resistance. Some bacteria are now resistant to even the most powerful antibiotics available.

Antibiotic resistance is a growing problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) calls it "one of the world's most pressing public health problems." It's especially a concern in low-income and developing countries. That's because:

• Health care providers in these areas often lack quick, helpful diagnostic tools that can identify which illnesses are caused by bacteria and which are not.
• Many of the areas only recently got widespread access to antibiotics.
• Lack of clean water, poor sanitation, and limited vaccine programs contribute to the infections and illnesses that antibiotics are prescribed for.

What Can Parents Do?

Every family faces its share of colds, sore throats, and viruses. When you bring your child to the doctor for these illnesses, it's important to not expect a prescription for antibiotics.

To lower the risk of bacterial resistance and prevent antibiotic overuse:

• Ask your doctor if your child's illness is bacterial or viral. Discuss the risks and benefits of antibiotics. If it's a virus, ask about ways to treat symptoms. Don't pressure your doctor to prescribe antibiotics.
• Let milder illnesses (especially those caused by viruses) run their course. This helps prevent germs from becoming antibiotic-resistant.
• Antibiotics must be taken for the full amount of time prescribed by the doctor. Otherwise, the infection may come back.
• Don't let your child take antibiotics longer than prescribed.
• Do not use leftover antibiotics or save extra antibiotics "for next time."
• Don't give your child antibiotics that were prescribed for another family member or adult.

It's also important to make sure that your kids:

• are up to date on their immunizations
• stay home from school when they're sick
• wash their hands well and often