Antibiotics fight infections that are caused by bacteria. They do not treat infections that are caused by a virus. Colds and flu are caused by viruses. If you have a viral infection, antibiotics WILL NOT make you better.
The overuse of antibiotics can:
- Kill normal ("healthy") bacteria that live in your body. This may cause nausea and diarrhea. Women can get vaginal yeast infections.
- Increase the risk of drug-resistant bacterial infections.
- Put you at risk of an allergic reaction.
Do not take antibiotics when they will not treat an illness.