06-05-2025
Why you should never take antibiotics to treat a cold
Pharmacists report frequent pressure from patients to prescribe antibiotics for common colds, which are viral infections not treatable with antibiotics.
Taking antibiotics for colds won't provide relief and contributes to antibiotic resistance, making future bacterial infections harder to treat.
Cold symptoms can mimic bacterial infections, but duration and severity are key differentiators. Colds typically resolve in seven-10 days.
Unnecessary antibiotic use risks developing antibiotic resistance, leading to more severe, difficult-to-treat infections. Other side effects include gastrointestinal issues, allergies, and microbiome disruption.
Rest, hydration, over-the-counter symptom relief, and home remedies like warm fluids and humidifiers are recommended for cold recovery. Antibiotics are appropriate only for confirmed bacterial infections like pneumonia or strep throat.
