by Choosing Wisely, ABIM Foundation, 5 Questions to ask your doctor before you take Antibiotics (2014)
“ Antibiotics fight bacterial infections, like strep throat, whooping cough and symptomatic bladder infections. But they don't fight viruses—like common colds, flu, or most sore throats and sinus infections. Ask if you have a bacterial infection. 2 What are the risks? Antibiotics can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and more. They can also lead to "antibiotic resistance"—if you use antibiotics when you don't need them, they may not work when you do need them. ”
