What is wrong with taking antibiotics all the time?

A major concern in the world today is antibiotic resistance. If one uses antibiotics for a long period of time or if one takes several antibiotics and continues to have infections, the bacteria may have developed resistance to the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. The patient does become “immune” to antibiotics but rather the bacteria “learn” to tolerate the antibiotics (especially amoxicillin).

Additionally, all medications have the potential for side effects (especially when taking for the long-term). Some patients are poorly tolerant of antibiotics, with gastrointestinal side effects or rashes.

Finally, antibiotics do not treat the underlying cause of otitis media and therefore in may result in repeated infections and discomfort for you or your child.