Antibiotic Therapy: What to Know

Antibiotics are medications that are used in the treatment of bacterial infections. They block the bacterium's replication process inside the cell. Different antibiotics can effect different parts of the bacteria's cell cycle.

• Antibiotics are used for treatment of bacterial infections.

• Sometimes, clinicians will prescribe them empirically, or, based on an experienced, educated opinion that the source of an infection is bacterial. Many infections, such as strep throat and pneumonia, can occur from both bacterial or viral sources. Clinicians may prescribe antibiotics emperically (without taking a sample to culture) to ensure antibacterial coverage for these conditions.

• Clinicians can prescribe antibiotics for both narrow or broad spectrum coverage of an infection.

• There are several kinds of antibiotics a clinician can prescribe.

• Generally, broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed when the provider does not know the bacterial source. Broad-spectrum antibiotics have a wide variety of bacteria they can kill. This option is suitable when there are no cultures available to interpret.

• Narrow-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed only when there is an identification of the bacterial organism causing the infection (usually from cultures)

• Providers may start a patient out on a broad-spectrum antibiotic and later switch to a narrow-spectrum antibiotic when the organism is known. This does not mean that the broad-spectrum antibiotic was not working. Usually they work just as well to kill bacteria as narrow-spectrum antibiotics, but providers may want to limit the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics because general overuse of them may cause antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

• However, sometimes a provider is okay with keeping a patient on broad-spectrum antibiotics if the course of therapy is short.

• Some antibiotics can be given orally. However, sometimes intravenous (IV) antibiotics may be needed if the strongest drug is available in only IV form, or if the infection requires multiple antibiotic therapies.

• Because there are so many types of antibiotics, there are many types of side effects that are specific to those medications

• When antibiotics are given orally, and have to go through the digestive tract, common side effects can include abdominal upset.

  • Patients may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

  • It is usually a good idea to take antibiotics with meals to mitigate these side effects.

• Oral and IV antibiotics can cause a rash. This is generally considered an allergic reaction. However, if the rash is not life threatening, prescribers may still intend to use these antibiotics. Some rashes can be life-threatening though, such as Steven-Johnson Syndrome.

• For girls who take birth control, antibiotics will decrease the effectiveness of the pill. Continue taking birth control as normal, but be aware that a secondary means of protection may be necessary while on the course of antibiotics.

• Some kinds of antibiotics can make the skin photosensitive, or extra sensitive to sunlight. Try to avoid being out in the sun as much during antibiotic treatment, and if necessary, wear sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing.

• In the case where antibiotics cause anaphylaxis (throat swelling, difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives) stop taking the drug immediately and call 911. This is a life-threatening reaction.

• Antibiotic therapy must be completed unless directed otherwise by the provider (given compelling reasons to stop treatment early). Completing the course of treatment ensures eradication of the bacteria and prevents growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria

  • By completing the course of treatment, this ensures no bacteria is left behind to replicate and create adaptive mechanisms to become immune to an antibiotic treatment.

Please contact your pediatrician/medical provider for specific questions about your child's antibiotic treatment. Not all antibiotics are suitable for every child.