Do's and don'ts of consuming antibiotics: Never take antibiotics with milk or juice, say no to alcohol
Do’s and don’ts of consuming antibiotics: Never take antibiotics with milk or juice, say no to alcohol
In a world where antibiotics have revolutionised medicine, understanding their responsible use is crucial. Responsible antibiotic use is pivotal in preserving their effectiveness. Embracing a cautious approach, seeking professional advice, and understanding the implications of misuse are crucial steps in safeguarding antibiotics for future generations. These powerful medications combat bacterial infections, yet their misuse contributes to antibiotic resistance, a growing global health concern.
Understanding antibiotic resistance
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria adapt and become resistant to the drugs designed to kill them. Overuse, misuse, and improper disposal of antibiotics accelerate this process. As a result, infections become harder to treat, leading to prolonged illnesses, increased healthcare costs, and higher mortality rates.
Always remember, antibiotics are invaluable tools in medicine, but their effectiveness hinges on our responsible use. Keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind to play your part in preserving the efficacy of antibiotics and combating the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance:
The do’s
Complete the full course: Even if symptoms alleviate, complete the prescribed antibiotic course. This ensures the complete eradication of the infection, preventing bacterial survival and resistance development.
Follow prescription guidelines: Always seek professional advice before starting antibiotics. Self-medication can lead to unnecessary use and potential side effects. Take antibiotics at the prescribed times and doses. Skipping or altering doses can render the treatment ineffective and promote resistance.
Practise good hygiene: Prevent infections by maintaining good hygiene practices. Regular handwashing, proper food handling, and vaccination help reduce the need for antibiotics.
Discard unused medication properly: If there are leftover antibiotics, dispose off them correctly. Don’t keep them for future use or share them with others, as this can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Stay away from the sun: Antibiotics have the potential to increase your sensitivity to light. Limit your time outdoors, especially when the sun is directly above you and the rays are stronger. If you go outside, apply sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
The don’ts
Don’t demand antibiotics: Trust your healthcare provider’s judgement. Antibiotics aren’t effective against viral infections like colds or flu. Requesting them for such illnesses contributes to resistance.
Don’t take antibiotics for mild infections: Mild illnesses like a common cold often resolve on their own. Antibiotics aren’t always necessary and should be avoided unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Don’t consume alcohol during the course: Refrain from consuming alcohol while on antibiotics. Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of certain antibiotics and may worsen side effects. Drinking alcohol while taking medications can decrease their effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects such as nausea and liver damage. In addition, alcohol impairs your ability to get enough sleep, which can slow the healing process.
Don’t take antibiotics with milk or juice: Certain antibiotics react with dairy or acidic juices, reducing their absorption or effectiveness. Follow medication instructions and ask your doctor about any food or drink restrictions while taking antibiotics.