Overview Of Over-The-Counter Antibiotics

Antibiotics seem to treat many bacterial infections. Some of them may kill bacteria. Others appear to stop them from spreading or growing further. Antibiotics may be offered orally, topically, intravenously, or via injection. However, in all cases, they do not seem to help viral infections. This means that they may not work on the common cold and flu, among others. Finishing a course of antibiotics appears necessary to lower the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Oral antibiotics seem to be a common treatment for strep throat. They may also work as a urinary tract infection treatment. Doctors may recommend antibiotic treatment for severe ear infections as well. Some good over-the-counter antibiotics seem to exist, though many may be prescription-only. The best over-the-counter antibiotics may include topical antibiotic ointments.

Possible Reasons That Most Antibiotics Are Prescription-Only

It seems as if most antibiotics are only available with a prescription in the United States. Part of the reason for this may be that doctors should have the knowledge to decide if an antibiotic is needed or not. They may also be able to determine which antibiotic will be effective. Doctors appear to know what antibiotics are unsafe when patients have other health conditions too.

If most antibiotics were available without a prescription, the risk of misuse may be higher. Patients may take them for viral infections. However, they do not seem to help these infections. Individuals may also take them more than necessary, which may increase their risk of antibiotic resistance. Additionally, some antibiotics may have side effects. Doctors should discuss these with patients first to decide if they are worth it.

Some antibiotics appear to be available over-the-counter. Discover them now.

Polymyxin B

Polymyxin B, on its own, may only be available with a prescription. However, if it is combined with bacitracin to make Polysporin, a brand of antibiotic ointment, it seems to be over-the-counter. This ointment may treat many infections on the skin from wounds. The wounds that it may help include minor burns, scrapes, and cuts. This ointment also seems to help the wounds heal a little faster. Some patients may be able to prevent infections if they apply it soon enough.

Individuals should consider cleaning their skin wound before using this ointment. Once the wound appears to be dry, they can apply a layer of the ointment. This layer may need to be fairly thin to be effective. It seems to be safe for patients to apply this antibiotic three times daily. A bandage to cover the wound may be helpful. It is rare for symptoms to worsen or persist for more than seven days. However, if they do, patients may want to call their doctor.

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