Bugs don't always mean drugs! That is a message as the flu season gears us that remind us much of what we see is viral and does not require antibiotics. Prevention- including a flu shot is a good first step.  

Doctors, data shows us are still writing 6 times as many antibiotic prescriptions for sore throats as they should, and are prescribing antibiotics for bronchitis despite no evidence of a benefit, 2 new studies show.

A Harvard reports shows we are still over prescribing for common throat infections and bronchitis.

A recent study in JAMA analyzed the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey in the U.S.

They estimated that there were 94 million visits to primary care physicians and emergency departments for sore throats from 1997 to 2010 with doctors prescribed antibiotics at 60 per cent of visits for sore throats and 73 per cent of visits for acute bronchitis during the study period. The study pointed out that antibiotic prescribing rate should be only about 10 per cent for sore throats and 0 per cent for acute bronchitis.

Even more worrisome is the study stating that many are  prescribing the wrong antibiotics; many are prescribing newer antibiotics. Streptococcus bacteria have resistance to some of these newer antibiotics, but are still not resistant to penicillin.

With awareness we have seen a decrease in antibiotic prescriptions.

So what is bronchitis?

This is a lung infection that has swelling and inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the lungs, and typically is a viral infection.

The issue is that often acute bronchitis cough can last about 3 weeks, and given the longevity many go to see the doctor and end up with a prescription!

Unnecessary antibiotic use is causing adverse effects, such as allergies, nausea, and yeast infections, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as clostridium difficile.

See a doctor If:

  • fever returns
  • fever longer than 3 days
  • difficulty breathing
  • repeat vomiting
  • wheezing
  • worsening symptoms
  • infant with fever
  • severe headache/stiff neck
  • underlying chronic conditions