The do's and don'ts when taking antibiotics

Antibiotics can be harmful for our health if we use them inappropriately or too often. Find out what to keep in mind when taking these prescription drugs.

BY María Pérez | 09 May 2025

In recent years there has been a lot of talk - and rightly so - about the use and abuse of antibiotics. We are all aware of them, and everyone has had them prescribed at some time, but do we have adequate information regarding when they are really necessary and how we should take them? The truth is that, although these drugs are powerful allies against certain infections, their indiscriminate use can turn them into a problem rather than a solution. Understanding how they work, and their purpose is the first step towards taking good care of our health.

What are antibiotics?

Antibiotics are medicines that are essential for treating infections caused by bacteria. They work by killing bacteria or preventing them from growing, thus facilitating the body's recovery.

On the other hand, they are not effective against viral infections, such as influenza or the common cold. Their inappropriate use in those cases is not only ineffective but can lead to serious adverse effects. One of the most worrying is the development of bacterial resistance: when bacteria adapt and become more difficult to treat, minimising the effectiveness of existing drugs and increasing the risk to individual and collective health.

Confirming that an infection is bacterial in origin before starting antibiotic treatment is essential, and under no circumstances should we self-medicate. Responsible use of antibiotics is a way to protect our health and the health of the whole community.

The DOS when taking antibiotics:

Carefully follow the prescription instructions: It is important to observe the dosage and timing. We must take the antibiotic at precise time intervals to ensure a consistent effect throughout the day.
Take probiotics: Antibiotics can modify the intestinal flora and microbiota. Taking probiotics can help prevent treatment-associated diarrhoea and reduce the risk of infections such as candidiasis.
Take antibiotics with water: Do not take them with dairy products or juices, as this can affect their absorption.
Store properly: In a cool, dry place out of reach of children.
Consult with your doctor if you have any doubts: If antibiotics cause side effects or any unforeseen issues, consult with your doctor immediately.

The DON’TS when taking antibiotics:

Do not self-medicate: As we mentioned, antibiotics must always be prescribed by a doctor; using medication that we have left over from a previous prescription can be very dangerous for our health.
Do not stop before the full course of treatment has been completed: It is crucial not to stop treatment before the end of the prescribed course, as antibiotics usually require prolonged use. Even if symptoms improve within a few days, it is important to follow the prescription instructions thoroughly. Failure to do so may allow the remaining bacteria to thrive.
Do not take with other medications without prior consultation: The combination of some active ingredients can lead to serious health risks. If you need other medications while on antibiotics, always consult a doctor beforehand.
Do not drink alcohol: Alcohol can cause side effects, such as upset stomach, drowsiness, increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as interfering with the absorption of antibiotics and reducing their effectiveness.
Don not share your medication with others: Each body is different and what may work for one person may not necessarily be right for someone else. Therefore, antibiotics should always be prescribed by a doctor, who will assess each patient's medical history and case.

Antibiotics are very useful drugs for fighting bacterial infections, and when used well, they save lives, but their misuse can have serious consequences. Bacterial resistance is a global health problem, and we can all help curb it by making responsible choices. Caring for our personal health is also caring for the health of our communities.