How Antibiotics Work

Antibiotics work by either killing bacteria or by inhibiting growth.

Antibiotics don't have any impact on viruses such as colds, flu, bronchitis, or other viral infections. Only your doctor can determine if you have a viral or bacterial infection.

Each time we take antibiotics, sensitive bacteria are killed, but resistant ones may be left to grow and multiply. Repeated use and improper use of antibiotics are some of the main causes of the increase in resistant bacteria.

• Misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and agriculture
• Demand for antibiotics when antibiotics are not called for
  
• Failure to finish an antibiotic prescription
  
• Availability of antibiotics in some countries without a prescription