Antibiotics are some of the most prescribed medications in the Philippines, but they’re also among the most misunderstood. As licensed pharmacists, we see the same mistakes repeated every week — and these mistakes can lead to antibiotic resistance, longer illness, and even hospitalization.
This is the single most common error. When you start feeling better after 2-3 days, the bacteria aren’t gone — they’re just suppressed. Stopping early lets the strongest bacteria survive and multiply, often coming back stronger and resistant to the medication that almost worked.
Different infections need different antibiotics, and dosages depend on weight, kidney function, and other medications you’re taking. What worked for your tito’s UTI could be completely wrong for your kid’s ear infection.
Antibiotics don’t work on viruses. The common cold, flu, most sore throats, and bronchitis are usually viral. Taking antibiotics anyway just kills your beneficial bacteria and helps resistant strains develop.
Antibiotics work best when their concentration in your bloodstream stays steady. Missing a dose lets bacteria recover; doubling up the next dose can cause side effects without making up for the gap. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it’s almost time for the next one.
Some antibiotics (like metronidazole) cause severe reactions with alcohol. Others (like ciprofloxacin) bind to calcium and iron supplements, making the medication useless. Always check with your pharmacist before combining.
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