A member asked:

Pcp gave me zithromax for cough.many studies are suggesting this as ineffective treatment.i'm concerned about antibiotic resistance. what should i do?

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Viral illness: You are correct that there is no need to use an antibiotic for a cough due to a cold or viral illness. There may, however, be a reason your doctor did give a prescription. If the cough is prolonged, a history of asthma, smoking or sounds of "walking pneumonia" on the chest exam, an antibiotic may be needed. If this is just a short cough or cold, ask your doctor if you can wait a few days to start.

Answered 11/26/2013

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Confusing question: In years of practice I have never given anyone antibiotics for a cough. If they had a rhino-sinusitis, bronchitis or early pneumonia, they would be treated as needed. Zithromax would be an appropriate treatment. If you were really offered it for just a cough, your concern is well placed.Antibiotic resistance is not a likely problem for you personally, but over time, it effects germs in the future.

Answered 11/26/2013

4.7k views

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