Antibiotics for Bronchitis

Proper medication is important in curing an illness, but it is also essential to use a reliable source of these medications, like your trusted physician. Antibiotics are medications that slow or stop the growth of bacteria. Prescriptions of antibiotics depends on what kind of infections causes your illness, like in the case of bronchitis there are specific antibiotics for this condition depending on the severity and status of the illness.

Bronchitis is a respiratory illness where in the lining of the bronchial tubes is inflamed. The condition may be acute bronchitis which is most often caused by viruses and bacteria and lasts for only a short period of time. Bronchitis may also be chronic in nature where there is too much mucus secretion and a productive cough which is mainly caused by smoking or infectious agents and lasts much longer from several months to years.

Antibiotics for bronchitis are prescribed by doctors, but in many cases the condition does not benefit from antibiotics. Because acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses most doctors do not prescribe antibiotics. Their effectiveness with acute bronchitis is so small compared to the side-effects that these antibiotics may bring. Most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, sore mouth, skin rashes, headache, sunburn easily and vaginal yeast infection.

The increase and improper used of antibiotics may also lead to antibiotic resistance in which the bacteria may mutate in ways so they will be able to survive in spite of medications; that means the antibiotics may not work on the next time that it is used. And since most antibiotics are expensive, costs may not be worth the benefits. Acute bronchitis usually clears up on its own in two to three weeks just by drinking lots of fluids and getting enough rest.

Doctors prescribe antibiotics because some can be beneficial on the infections that are associated with the condition, but not directly on the bronchitis. They may help in decreasing the duration of the cough as well. There are some antibiotics which are known for treating both acute and chronic bronchitis but also prescribed for other medical illness. Ampicillin is used for the treatment of infections that result from acute bronchitis. Trimethoprim is an antibiotic used for infections in the respiratory tract. Azithromycin and Amoxicillin are considered effective treatment for bacterial infections causing bronchitis. Telithromycin is a drug used for mild to moderate infections in the respiratory system.

When taking antibiotics you should also be aware of the adverse effects they may bring to your body. Precautionary measures are also important when taking antibiotics for bronchitis and these include, consulting your doctor of the severity of bronchitis before beginning antibiotics and taking the antibiotics as prescribed, do not stop or miss doses. Consulting your Obstetrician or gynecologist is also important if you are pregnant.

Some experts advise not to take antibiotics for acute bronchitis especially when you do not have other medical problems. It will not only save you from potential side-effects but also from unnecessary expenses.