Recommendations for Appropriate Use of Antibiotics
WARNING: Unnecessary antibiotics CAN be harmful!
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Newly emerging diseases associated with antibiotic-resistance are becoming a major public health problem. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are the result of improper prescribing and use of antibiotics. Many consumers demand antibiotics from their doctors for the general treatment of colds and flu. The resulting practice does not improve the outcome of the illness and presents a potential life-threatening risk to the patient and others from antibiotic-resistant bacteria. ANTIBIOTICS HAVE NO EFFECT ON VIRUSES AND VIRAL ILLNESSES SUCH AS COLDS AND FLU.
Fronske Position Statement
The Fronske Health Center providers follow the most current guidelines for the proper use of antibiotics. At Fronske Health Center, we have a strong responsibility not only to our individual patients but also to maintain the effectiveness of existing antibiotics by reserving their use for situations where they are clearly indicated.
Cold and Flu Symptom Time Line
Taking antibiotics for colds and flu will not make you feel better or reduce the symptoms of the illness.
Figure 1
Cold Symptom Time Line
(From Bates, B. Chart Helps Doctors Say No to Antibiotic Requests. Family Practice News, 10/1/2002)
We know that infections and symptoms can change in the course of an illness. Sometimes secondary bacterial infections may develop along with a cold or the flu. Less than 10% of acute bronchitis infections are caused by a bacterial infection. It is important for students with viral infections to follow-up, after their initial diagnosis and treatment, with their health care providers if the illness worsens or has an unexpected change to reassess and conduct proper tests for evidence of bacteria. This process ensures the correct diagnosis and appropriate and effective use of antibiotics when warranted.
Recommendations for Students
- Use antibiotics as directed by your health care provider or pharmacist.
- Use the entire prescription as directed.
- Discuss with your provider or pharmacist any possible interactions with other prescriptions or health issues.
- Contact your provider if you are experiencing any serious side-effects.
- Follow-up with your provider if your illness worsens or unexpected changes in the illness occur.
- Do not stop taking the antibiotic if your symptoms go away. Take all of the medication as directed. This helps prevent the bacteria from becoming resistant to the antibiotic.
- Do not share antibiotics with others.
- Do not self-prescribe. Talk to your doctor about what medications work best.
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