When to Use Antibiotics for Your Child: Parent’s Guide

This leaflet will provide information on antibiotics, their uses, side-effects, and important use instructions.

Parent’s Guide

What are antibiotics?

  • Antibiotics are types of medicine used to treat bacterial infections.
  • Antibiotics do not work for illnesses like the common cold, flu, most sore throats, and bronchitis (infection of the trachea and bronchi), because these illnesses are caused by viruses. Using antibiotics for viral infections is not effective and can result in unnecessary side effects and resistance.

How do antibiotics work?

  • Antibiotics fight bacteria either by killing them or by stopping them from growing. This helps your child body's natural defenses take over and get rid of the infection.

When should your child take antibiotics?

  • Not all Illnesses require antibiotics use.
  • A doctor will check if your child needs antibiotics based on their symptoms.
  • Your child might need antibiotics for some infections caused by bacteria, such as:
    • Some throat or ear infections
    • Pneumonia (lung infection)
    • Urinary tract infections

What are the risks of using antibiotics when not needed?

  • Using antibiotics when not needed can cause bacteria to become resistant. This makes future infections harder to treat
  • Other side effects can include:
    • Diarrhea
    • Allergic reactions
    • Disruption of good bacteria in the body

How can I ensure my child takes antibiotics correctly?

  • Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions exactly.
  • Ensure your child takes the full course of antibiotics, even if they start to feel better before the medicine is finished. Do Not skip doses or stop early.

What should I do if my child misses a dose?

  • If your child misses a dose of antibiotics, give it as soon as you remember.
  • If it’s the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule.
  • Do not give a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Can antibiotics cause side effects?

Yes, some types of antibiotics may cause side effects such as:

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Rash
  • Allergic reactions.

What should I do if my child has an allergic reaction to an antibiotic?

  • Stop the antibiotic and get medical help right away if your child has signs of an allergic reaction, like:
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling
    • Trouble breathing
  • Inform the healthcare provider about the reaction for future reference.

How can I help prevent antibiotic resistance?

  • Only use antibiotics when prescribed by your child’s healthcare provider, and complete the full course as directed.
  • Do not use leftover antibiotics or share them with others, as each prescription is tailored for a specific condition and may not be suitable for other cases.
  • Promote good hygiene, like regular handwashing, to help prevent infections.

When should I take my child to the Emergency Department (ED)?

Take your child to the nearest Emergency Department (ED) if he/she has severe side effects such as trouble breathing or swelling.