Action on Antibiotics

Antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Antibiotics don't work against infections caused by viruses, such as colds and flu. So there's no point taking antibiotics to treat a cold or flu, and no point asking your doctor to prescribe them for a cold or flu.

Taking antibiotics when you don't need them is a waste. It can also mean that they won't work when you really need them for a serious infection. It also puts you at risk of side effects, like a rash, upset stomach or diarrhoea.

Click on the links below to find out more about antibiotics

	Information for Patients - find out when you should use antibiotics, and when you shouldn't. Get advice on how to manage a cold or flu at home, with support from your GP and your Pharmacist.
	Information for GPs - GPs have a lead role to play in the correct use of antibiotics in the community. GPs can access the Guidelines for Antimicrobial Prescribing here, along with links to more info from the HPSC, RCPI, ICGP and more
	Campaign materials - See the resources that are now available at your GP or your local Pharmacy. Our campaign is strongly supported by the Irish Collegel of General Practitioners, the Irish Pharmacy Union and the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland.

Have a look at a similar campaign videos and an app from Australia, Canada, USA, and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control