Do antibiotics help with colds or flu?

No. Colds and flu are caused by viruses, against which antibiotics are ineffective. They are only used when a bacterial infection is present or develops additionally — your doctor will assess this.

Do I always have to finish the pack?

What matters is the duration of treatment that your doctor has determined — this may be shorter or longer than the pack, depending on the infection. Do not stop the treatment on your own, but ask if in doubt.

May I drink alcohol during treatment?

With certain active ingredients alcohol is problematic, with others less so — this varies from medicine to medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacy what applies to your preparation. In principle, restraint is good for your weakened body anyway.

What is antibiotic resistance?

Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics if they are used too frequently or unnecessarily. Resistant bacteria are more difficult to treat. This is why doctors in Switzerland prescribe with deliberate restraint.

Do antibiotics affect the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill?

Most antibiotics do not reduce the effectiveness of the pill. An exception is certain active substances that speed up the breakdown of hormones in the liver — especially Rifampicin and Rifabutin. Regardless of the antibiotic, severe vomiting or severe diarrhoea can impair the absorption of the pill. Bring up this topic when the prescription is issued, so that the doctor or pharmacy can tell you whether additional contraception is needed in your specific case.

Antibiotics — Procedure, Preparation & Cost

Antibiotics are medicines that work specifically against bacteria — they inhibit their growth or kill them. They do not help with viral infections such as colds or flu. Whether an antibiotic makes sense is decided by your doctor after careful assessment, because prudent use protects the effectiveness of these medicines for everyone.

Typical Areas of Use

Bacterial cystitis
Bacterial pneumonia
Streptococcal tonsillitis
Bacterial skin infections
Lyme disease after tick bite
Bacterial middle ear infection

How It Works

1Your doctor will first determine whether bacteria are really behind your symptoms — through consultation, examination and, depending on the situation, a swab, urine or blood test.
2If the suspicion is confirmed, she will select an antibiotic that is suitable for the suspected pathogen and your situation — taking into account allergies and other medications, for example.
3You will receive a prescription with a specified duration of treatment; the doctor or pharmacy will discuss directly with you how to take the medicine.
4If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they worsen, contact the practice — the treatment will then be reviewed and adjusted if necessary.

How to Prepare

Inform your doctor of any known allergies, especially to antibiotics.
Bring a list of your current medications, as interactions are possible.
Mention any existing or possible pregnancy.

Side Effects & Risks

Gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, abdominal pain or diarrhoea are among the most common side effects.
Allergic reactions are possible — ranging from rash to, very rarely, severe immediate reactions.
The balance of the natural bacterial flora can be disturbed, which can promote fungal infections, for example.
If used unnecessarily or too frequently, bacteria can become resistant — which is why prescribing is done with restraint.

Afterwards — and When to Seek Help

Mild gastrointestinal complaints during treatment are common and usually harmless. Contact the practice if a rash, shortness of breath or swelling in the face occurs — these can be signs of an allergy — and likewise if you have severe or bloody diarrhoea or if the fever does not go down after two to three days despite treatment. Do not stop the treatment on your own, but discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacy.

Cost & Insurance

Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor that are on the specialist list are usually covered by basic health insurance — the deductible and co-payment apply as usual. The related consultations at the doctor's practice are also covered by basic insurance. This is provided for guidance only without guarantee; in case of doubt, contact your health insurance provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do antibiotics help with colds or flu?: No. Colds and flu are caused by viruses, against which antibiotics are ineffective. They are only used when a bacterial infection is present or develops additionally — your doctor will assess this.
Do I always have to finish the pack?: What matters is the duration of treatment that your doctor has determined — this may be shorter or longer than the pack, depending on the infection. Do not stop the treatment on your own, but ask if in doubt.
May I drink alcohol during treatment?: With certain active ingredients alcohol is problematic, with others less so — this varies from medicine to medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacy what applies to your preparation. In principle, restraint is good for your weakened body anyway.
What is antibiotic resistance?: Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics if they are used too frequently or unnecessarily. Resistant bacteria are more difficult to treat. This is why doctors in Switzerland prescribe with deliberate restraint.
Do antibiotics affect the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill?: Most antibiotics do not reduce the effectiveness of the pill. An exception is certain active substances that speed up the breakdown of hormones in the liver — especially Rifampicin and Rifabutin. Regardless of the antibiotic, severe vomiting or severe diarrhoea can impair the absorption of the pill. Bring up this topic when the prescription is issued, so that the doctor or pharmacy can tell you whether additional contraception is needed in your specific case.