Antibiotics, when used appropriately, can save lives in conditions such as pneumonia and meningitis.

Antibiotics do not work for many common infections, such as colds, coughs and sore throats. Most of these are caused by viruses, which antibiotics do not kill. Antibiotics only kill bacteria.

Taking antibiotics when they are not necessary can lead to needless side-effects and the development of antibiotic resistance. This means that some antibiotics might not be as effective when they are really needed.

As a practice, we are making sure that we only prescribe antibiotics when necessary. You may notice that the Doctor suggests other ways of managing your problem or gives a prescription to be used later rather than straight away. Antibiotics will only be issued after assessment by a Doctor.

Please be reassured that you will receive antibiotics if you really need them.

Links or leaflets which you may find helpful are:

Does my child need an antibiotic?

Do I need an antibiotic?

Get well soon without antibiotics

Acute Sinusitis - self help leaflet

Common cold and flu - self help leaflet

Cough and acute bronchitis - self help leaflet

Sore ear - self help leaflet

Treating your infection - self help leaflet

When should I worry - information booklet for parents