Things I Have Learned In College

Regarding antibiotics

 

1)      Finish your antibiotics. Take them according to the directions on the label. Taking them as prescribed will “maintain therapeutic blood levels” and overall be more effective in treating what ails you. (Gauwitz, 2012)

 

2)      You might get pregnant while on antibiotics. They can decrease the effectiveness of estrogen containing contraceptives. So, if you are up to having sex while you are sick, double up on the protection.

3)      Diabetes testing may be incorrect. Antibiotics can cause false positive results with diabetic patients who use Clinitest.

4)      Antibiotics can make you sick, or sicker. Side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting. 

5)      Allergic reactions are fast and can be deadly. Report rash, swelling of throat and tongue, and shock immediately to your doctor, or go right to the emergency room. Do not take antibiotics if you know you have allergies to them.

6)      Don’t drink and drug. Avoid alcohol especially while taking cephalosporin antibiotics. The combination could cause abdominal pains, nausea, vomiting, decreased blood pressure, rapid pulse, and sweating.

7)      Good hygiene matters. Brush your teeth and floss, keep your unmentionable area clean to avoid yeast infections.

8)      Skip the antacids. Antacids, iron supplements, laxatives that contain aluminum, calcium, or magnesium decrease the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.

9)      Liver problems and macrolide antibiotics are not a good combination. 

10)   You could get sun burn. Photosensitivity to Direct sunlight or UV light might be increased. 

11)   Antibiotics can cause visual disturbances. 

12)   Drink a full glass of water when taking antibiotics. Especially if you are taking aminoglycoside antibiotics. There could be toxic effects on the kidneys and water will help flush things out. Besides, we all need to drink more water.

13)   Your Central Nervous System (CNS) could be affected by antibiotics.

Based on this list, it seems to me that it may be a good idea to journal daily when on antibiotics or any medications. That way, if something weird occurs you are even more aware of it and are more likely to do something about it.

Works Cited

Gauwitz, D. F. (2012). Administring Medicatons Seventh Edition. New York: Mcgraw Hill.