Patient Guide
Do I Really Need Antibiotics?
When antibiotics help, when they won't, and how to recover
1 in 5Australians think antibiotics treat a cold — they don't
7–10 dayshow long a typical cold takes to clear
Up to 3 wksa normal cough can linger & still not need antibiotics
Why antibiotics often aren't the answer
Colds & blocked nose
Always viral. They settle in about 7–10 days — and green mucus is normal, not a sign you need antibiotics.
Most sore throats
Usually viral and ease within about a week. Only some are bacterial and need treatment.
Coughs & chest colds
A cough can linger up to 3 weeks while your airways recover — usually without antibiotics.
Sinus congestion
Most clears by itself over 2–3 weeks. Antibiotics rarely speed it up.
Most ear infections
Often viral and settle on their own, especially in older children and adults.
Tummy bugs (gastro)
Almost always viral. Fluids and rest are the treatment — antibiotics can make it worse.
Does green or yellow mucus mean I need antibiotics? It feels like it should — but coloured mucus is just part of your body fighting a virus, not proof of a bacterial infection. On its own, it's not a reason for antibiotics.
What actually helps you recover
1
Rest & fluids
Your body does the real work — give it rest and plenty to drink.
2
Ease the symptoms
Simple pain or fever relief, lozenges or a saltwater gargle help you cope.
3
Soothe a cough
Warm drinks and honey can calm a cough (never honey under age 1).
4
Give it time
Most infections ease day by day — keep an eye on how you're going.
Why using them wisely matters Every unnecessary antibiotic gives bacteria a chance to learn to resist them — so they may not work when you, or someone you love, really needs them. They can also upset your gut and cause side effects. Hundreds of Australians die each year from resistant infections.
See a doctor (or urgent care) if:
- You're struggling to breathe, or breathing fast
- A high fever won't settle, or you feel very unwell
- You start to get better, then suddenly get worse
- Symptoms last well beyond the times shown here
- Stiff neck, a rash that won't fade, or new confusion
When antibiotics are the right call
- A genuine bacterial infection — some urine, skin, chest or throat infections
- You're very unwell, or at higher risk
- Your GP examines you and decides it with you
- Sometimes a 'wait-and-see' script, used only if you worsen
- If prescribed, take them exactly as advised
Not always a script — always good care
'You don't need antibiotics yet' is a careful decision, not a brush-off. We'll treat what you have the right way, and tell you exactly when to come back.
— Dr Regu
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