What Can Patients and Physicians Do?

What Can Patients Do?
Realize that not all bugs need drugs. Antibiotics don’t work on viruses such as the flu, colds or most sinus infections, coughs and bronchitis. Many doctors will recommend getting extra rest and letting the illness run its course.

Tell your doctor you’ll take an antibiotic only if necessary. “Ask, ‘Do I really need this?’” suggests microbiologist Dr. Allison McGeer

If doctors tell you an antibiotic won’t help, don’t seek out another doctor for a prescription

If prescribed an antibiotic, take it exactly as directed

When travelling to other countries, don’t buy antibiotics over the counter without consulting a doctor

Prevent infections by getting immunized, staying home if contagious and washing hands frequently

What Can Physicians Do?
Rethink the notion that antibiotics are always the “better safe than sorry” option. “That approach is deeply embedded in the psyche of physicians,” McGeer says.

Avoid misreading your patient. A patient who asks about antibiotics isn’t necessarily asking for them

If you don’t believe antibiotics will help your patient, take the extra minute to explain why

If prescribing an antibiotic, make sure it’s the narrowest spectrum and for the shortest duration possible to cure the infection. Long-term use increases risks of C. difficile and side effects, as well as resistance

Encourage patients to get immunized and to practice careful hygiene

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