Antibiotics are medications that combat bacterial infections. However, since bacteria are living organisms, they have the ability to mutate. Such mutations are resulting in drug-resistant bacteria like MRSA. Antibiotics are ineffective in treating illnesses caused by viruses such as the common cold, flu and sore throats, with the exception of strep throat. Taking antibiotics when they are not necessary does not speed up recovery and contributes to drug-resistant bacteria.

It is important to take your antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor and even if you feel better, keep taking them till they are gone. Do not save antibiotics for later use or share then with others. By taking antibiotics as prescribed it helps cut down on drug-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance.

The discovery of penicillin was considered a medical miracle because it helped wipe out many of the diseases that are caused by bacteria. This meant that deadly diseases such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, syphilis and tetanus could now be treated. With time, however, bacteria started to become resistant to antibiotics or not affected at all. — NIPA

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Antibiotics.

• Amazon.com: Natural Alternatives to Antibiotics

• Amazon.com: Antibiotic Crisis: Antibiotic Alternative

• Wikipedia: Phage Therapy

• Phage Therapy Center: Success in Treating Antibiotic Resistant Infections

• USA Today: U.S. Needs to Open Eyes to 'Phage Therapy' (July 6, 2006)

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