Your healthcare team thinks that you or your loved one might have an infection. Some infections can be treated with antibiotics, which are powerful, life-saving drugs. Like all medications, antibiotics have side effects and should only be used when necessary. There are some important things you should know about your antibiotic treatment.
As a patient or caregiver, it is important to understand your or your loved one’s antibiotic treatment. It is especially important for caregivers to speak up when patients can’t speak for themselves. Here are some important questions to ask your healthcare team.
- What infection is this antibiotic treating and how do you know I have that infection?
- What side effects might occur from this antibiotic?
- How long will I need to take this antibiotic?
- Is it safe to take this antibiotic with other medications or supplements (e.g., vitamins) that I am taking?
- Are there any special directions I need to know about taking this antibiotic? For example, should I take it with food?
- How will I be monitored to know whether my infection is responding to the antibiotic?
- What tests may help to make sure the right antibiotic is prescribed for me?
Remember, antibiotics are life-saving drugs and they need to be used properly. If you have any questions about your antibiotics, please talk to your healthcare team.