Antibiotics are medications that treat bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or stopping their growth. They are powerful tools against illnesses like strep throat or urinary tract infections. However, in most developed countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia, oral or injectable antibiotics are not available over the counter and strictly require a prescription.
Antibiotic Availability
Systemic antibiotics, taken orally or by injection, are consistently regulated as prescription-only medications across many nations, including the United States, Canada, the UK, Europe, and Australia. This regulation aims to safeguard public health. Some topical antibiotic ointments, however, are available over the counter for minor skin issues like cuts or scrapes. These topical preparations are for external use only and do not treat internal or severe infections.
Why Antibiotics Require a Prescription
Antibiotics are regulated due to concerns about antibiotic resistance, where bacteria evolve to withstand medications. When antibiotics are used improperly or too frequently, bacteria can adapt, making infections harder to treat and posing a global health challenge. This resistance means that once-treatable infections may become prolonged, more severe, or even untreatable.
Healthcare professionals are needed to accurately diagnose the type of infection. Antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections and do not work on viruses, which cause illnesses like the common cold, flu, or most sore throats. Prescribing an antibiotic for a viral infection is ineffective and contributes to resistance. A medical assessment ensures the correct diagnosis and the appropriate treatment is chosen.
Antibiotics can also cause various side effects, ranging from common digestive issues like diarrhea to more severe reactions such as allergic responses or Clostridioides difficile infection. Some antibiotics can interact negatively with other medications. A healthcare provider evaluates a patient’s medical history and current medications to select an antibiotic that is safe and effective, minimizing the risk of adverse effects or drug interactions.
Risks of Improper Antibiotic Use
Using antibiotics incorrectly carries several personal and public health risks. If an antibiotic is taken for a viral infection, it will not alleviate symptoms and can delay appropriate treatment. This misuse also contributes to the individual’s gut microbiome becoming imbalanced, as antibiotics can eliminate beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones. The disruption of healthy bacteria can lead to further health issues, such as yeast infections or digestive problems.
Improper use, such as taking antibiotics unnecessarily or not completing the full course, increases the likelihood of bacteria developing resistance. Self-treating with antibiotics can also mask a more serious underlying condition, preventing timely and accurate medical intervention. This delay in proper diagnosis could allow a severe illness to progress without the necessary care.
How to Obtain Antibiotics Safely
To obtain antibiotics safely, consult a healthcare professional for any suspected bacterial infection. These professionals can accurately diagnose the condition and determine if an antibiotic is needed. They will consider the specific type of infection, the patient’s medical history, and potential drug interactions to prescribe the most appropriate medication.
Once a prescription is provided, it is important to follow the instructions precisely. This includes taking the correct dosage at the specified times and completing the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve before the pills are finished. Stopping treatment early allows remaining bacteria to recover and potentially develop resistance. Patients should also avoid sharing their prescribed antibiotics with others or saving leftover medication for future use.