Antibiotics are used to treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection. They work by killing bacteria or preventing them from reproducing and spreading. Antibiotics aren't effective against viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, most coughs and sore throats.
Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial infections that:
- Are unlikely to clear up without antibiotics.
- Could infect others unless treated
could take too long to clear without treatment.
- Carry a risk of more serious complication.
