November 2026 education
Antibiotics: responsible use and clear instructions
What to clarify before and during antibiotic treatment, without self-medication or unnecessary combinations.
This information supports a conversation with your healthcare team. It does not replace individual assessment or treatment.
Antibiotic education is about using treatment correctly. It is not a reason to automatically buy additional products.
The key points
- Take an antibiotic only when it has been prescribed for you. Antibiotics do not treat viral colds or flu.
- Follow the dose and duration instructions exactly. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if anything is unclear.
- Do not share antibiotics, use leftovers from earlier treatment, or take another person’s prescription.
- Ask a pharmacist how to return unused medicines safely.
Before leaving the pharmacy
- Do I understand when and how to take each dose?
- Have I clarified the duration and what to do if a problem occurs?
- Have I discussed my other medicines and allergies?
Discuss personal health details and symptoms privately with the appropriate healthcare professional.
Official sources
- ECDC · Responsible antibiotic use
- ECDC · Self-medication with antibiotics
- CDC · Antibiotic Do’s and Don’ts
Sources checked: 1 November 2026