Antimicrobials are medicines used to kill microbes (germs). These germs include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They can cause infections.
Each type of germ has a type of medicine that will treat it. Examples include:
Antibiotics like amoxicillin for bacteria.
Antivirals like tamiflu for viruses.
Fluconazole (Diflucan) for fungi.
Metronidazole for parasites.
Why shouldn't your child take them 'just in case'?
Your child shouldn't take antimicrobial medicines when they don't need them, or "just in case." These medicines have side effects that include vomiting, diarrhea, and yeast infections. And they may not work as well later when your child does need them.
Each time your child takes them, there's a risk that some germs aren't killed by the medicine. Those germs can change and become even harder to treat. Some of these germs are so strong that they can't be treated by any medicine. These are called antimicrobial-resistant microbes. They can cause more serious infections that last longer.
These tougher germs can spread to family, friends, and classmates. To treat them, your child may need different, stronger medicines.
How can you give them to your child wisely?
Always ask your doctor if antimicrobials are the best treatment. Explain that you don't want your child to use these medicines unless they are needed.
If your child does need them, make sure to give them to your child as directed. If the label says to take the medicine at a certain time of day, follow those directions.
Give your child the full course of medicine. Don't let your child stop taking them just because they feel better. This will help get rid of any germs that survive the first few days of treatment. It will also help prevent the growth of antimicrobial-resistant germs.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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