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Understanding Antibiotics: What They Are and How They Work

Antibiotics are powerful medicines specifically designed to treat bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or preventing their growth and reproduction. Unlike other medications such as antivirals or antifungals, antibiotics target bacterial cell walls, proteins, or DNA to eliminate harmful bacteria from your body. They work through various mechanisms, including disrupting bacterial cell wall formation, inhibiting protein synthesis, or interfering with bacterial DNA replication.

Healthcare professionals prescribe antibiotics when you have confirmed or suspected bacterial infections such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, or skin infections. It's crucial to understand that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like the common cold or flu. Proper antibiotic use involves taking the complete prescribed course, even if you feel better, and never sharing antibiotics with others or saving leftover tablets for future use.

Types of Antibiotics Available in Australia

Penicillins

Penicillins, including amoxicillin and flucloxacillin, are among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in Australia. These medicines are particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria and are frequently used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and dental abscesses.

Cephalosporins

Cephalexin and cefaclor belong to this broad-spectrum antibiotic family. They're often prescribed for urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and respiratory infections when penicillins aren't suitable.

Macrolides

This group includes erythromycin, azithromycin, and clarithromycin. Macrolides are excellent alternatives for patients allergic to penicillin and are commonly used for:

  • Respiratory tract infections
  • Whooping cough
  • Atypical pneumonia
  • Chlamydia infections

Tetracyclines

Doxycycline and minocycline are versatile antibiotics effective against a wide range of bacteria, including those causing acne, tick-borne diseases, and certain sexually transmitted infections.

Fluoroquinolones and Sulfonamides

Ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin are powerful broad-spectrum antibiotics typically reserved for more serious infections. Sulfonamide combinations with trimethoprim are commonly used for urinary tract infections and certain respiratory conditions.

Common Conditions Treated with Antibiotics

Antibiotics are prescribed to treat a wide range of bacterial infections affecting different parts of the body. Understanding which conditions require antibiotic treatment helps ensure appropriate use of these important medicines.

Respiratory Tract Infections

These include bacterial bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis. Amoxicillin and doxycycline are commonly prescribed for these conditions, with stronger antibiotics like clarithromycin used for more severe cases.

Other Common Bacterial Infections

  • Urinary tract infections: Often treated with trimethoprim or nitrofurantoin
  • Skin and soft tissue infections: Typically require flucloxacillin or cephalexin
  • Ear infections: Commonly treated with amoxicillin, particularly in children
  • Throat infections: Strep throat usually responds well to penicillin or amoxicillin
  • Dental infections: Often require amoxicillin or metronidazole
  • Eye infections: Topical antibiotics like chloramphenicol are frequently used
  • Gastrointestinal infections: Specific antibiotics depend on the bacterial cause identified

Prescription Requirements and Availability in Australia

In Australia, all antibiotics are classified as prescription-only medicines (POM), meaning they can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a registered healthcare provider such as a doctor or dentist.

Healthcare Provider Role

Your GP, specialist, or other qualified healthcare professional will assess your condition, determine if antibiotics are necessary, and prescribe the most appropriate medication based on the type and severity of your infection.

PBS Coverage and Options

Many antibiotics are subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making them more affordable for Australian patients. Both generic and brand name antibiotics are available, with generic options often providing significant cost savings whilst maintaining the same therapeutic effectiveness. Your pharmacist can provide valuable consultation about your antibiotic treatment, including proper dosing, potential side effects, and drug interactions. In limited circumstances, emergency supply provisions may allow pharmacists to provide certain antibiotics without a prescription for continuing treatment.

Safe Use and Important Considerations

Completing the Full Course of Treatment

Always finish your prescribed antibiotic course, even if you feel better before the medication is finished. Stopping early can lead to incomplete treatment and may contribute to antibiotic resistance. If you experience severe side effects, consult your pharmacist or doctor rather than simply discontinuing the medication.

Taking Antibiotics Correctly

Take antibiotics at evenly spaced intervals as directed by your healthcare provider. This maintains consistent levels of the medication in your body for optimal effectiveness. Set reminders if necessary to ensure you don't miss doses.

Food and Drug Interactions

Some antibiotics should be taken with food to reduce stomach irritation, whilst others work best on an empty stomach. Always check with your pharmacist about potential interactions with other medications, supplements, or specific foods that might affect absorption or effectiveness.

Side Effects and When to Seek Help

Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhoea, or stomach upset. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe skin reactions. Special care is needed for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, children, and elderly patients who may require adjusted dosages or alternative medications.

Antibiotic Resistance and Responsible Use

Understanding Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to survive exposure to antibiotics, making infections harder to treat. This serious global health concern affects Australia significantly, with certain resistant bacteria becoming increasingly common in Australian hospitals and communities.

Australian Guidelines for Responsible Use

Australia follows strict antibiotic stewardship guidelines to combat resistance. This includes using antibiotics only when prescribed by healthcare professionals and choosing the most appropriate antibiotic for specific infections.

Community Responsibility

Everyone plays a role in preventing antibiotic resistance:

  • Never share antibiotics with others
  • Don't request antibiotics for viral infections like colds or flu
  • Return unused antibiotics to your local pharmacy for safe disposal
  • Practice good hygiene to prevent infections
  • Follow vaccination schedules to prevent bacterial infections

Remember that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. Your healthcare provider will determine when antibiotics are truly necessary for bacterial infections.

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