Get Virtual Care
For Businesses
About Us
A member asked:
Is it harmful to take antibiotics just to kill any potential bacteria that could make infections, without being diagnosed?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
Yes, quite harmful: This is dangerous. Your body's normal bacteria, including potentially harmful ones, will simply become resistant to the antibiotics you are taking, and often additional antibiotics as well. If and when a problem develops, it will be harder to treat, and sometimes resistant to all available antibiotics. Brief treatment to prevent specific infections sometimes is OK, but only with doctor's advice.
Answered 1/31/2017
810 views
Thank
Related Questions
A member asked:
How do I know if cough of 1.5 months is bacterial or viral? Caused from sinus infection, post nasal drip frm a cold.If bacterial, which antibiotic to take? Don't want to become resistant to antibiotic
3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
A member asked:
I am on antibiotic Doxcycycline Hyclate 100 mg 2 times/day for 7 days to treat skin bacterial infection.Is it safe to take the flu vaccine while on it?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
A member asked:
I had a molar pulled due to infection. I took clindamycin with tooth in. If the bacteria became resistant to antibiotic what next?
2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
A member asked:
I have an esophagal yeast infection i'm taking medications to kill the bacteria but i still seem to be feeling worse why?
2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
People also searched for:
Was prescribed cephalexin for a "small amount of bacteria" found in a urinalysis. I have been on it for 3 days and feel its gone by now. Will it be harmful to continue to take the antibiotic even if I feel there is no infection?
What can you take to clear a vaginal bacteria infection if you can't get a antibiotic?
How long it takes for a reactive adenopathy (dueto a bacteria infection ) to disappear after taking the antibiotic . Might it stay for 2 months ?
How long does it take to see the effects of an antibiotic on a bacterial infection?
I have bacterial vaginosis, i was suggested to take metronidazol but im already taking another antibiotic for my kidney infection, cyprofloxacine.
Didn't find what you're looking for?
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your questionMore of what we treat
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.
HIPAASecure
SOC 2 Type 2Certified
JCAHOAccredited
Download HealthTap
Video visit and message your doctor
