Antibiotics and Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotics are powerful drugs, but they are not the cure for all that ails you. Antibiotics, also known as antimicrobial drugs, are drugs that fight infections caused by bacteria. They are not effective against viral infections like the common cold, most sore throats, and the flu.
Today, almost all important bacterial infections in the United States and throughout the world are becoming resistant to antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance has been called one of the world's most pressing public health problems. The smart use of antibiotics is the key to controlling the spread of resistance.
The misuse of antibiotics has contributed to one of the world’s most pressing public health problems today -- antibiotic resistance. FDA has teamed up with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health care professional, government, academic, international and industry partners to support Get Smart About Antibiotics Week as part of a joint effort to encourage the appropriate use of antibiotics.
Information from FDA
- New Executive Actions to Combat Antibiotic Resistance and Protect Public Health
The White House Blog FDA’s Take on the Executive Order and National Strategy to Combat Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
FDA Voice Blog- Educational Materials on Antibiotics and Antibiotic Resistance
Brochures, posters, public service announcements, and other media Combating Antibiotic Resistance
FDA Consumer Update article on the appropriate use of antibiotics and the serious health threat of antibiotic resistanceFighting the Impact of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
FDA Consumer Update articleAntimicrobial Resistance Information for Consumers and Health Professionals
Information by drug classAntimicrobial Resistance
Animal and Veterinary
Related Resources
Further information about antibiotics and antibiotic resistance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:
- Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work
Public education campaign from CDC and FDA - provides information and educational tools about antibiotic resistance and how to prevent it - Antibiotic/Antimicrobial Resistance
Centers for Diseases Contol and Prevention (CDC) MedlinePlus: Antibiotics
Consumer information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM)- Antimicrobial Resistance
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
