Antibiotics have revolutionised medical care in the twentieth century and we seem to have become reliant on their properties believing that they are a "cure all" option. However overuse of antibiotics can be dangerous.
It is thought that resistance comes from the fact that some antibiotics are prescribed too regularly.
Antibiotics are powerful agents against bacterial infections, but they have no effect on viral infections including colds, flu and many cases of bronchitis. They are also ineffective in about 10 percent of sore throats.
Possible side-effects of antibiotics include; upset stomach, thrush, diarrhoea and allergic reaction. Women using the contraceptive pill should be aware that antibiotics can reduce its effectiveness.
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