Contributed Photo / Dr. Charles CrumpQ: Please settle an argument in my household: Will antibiotics help with a cold? I say yes; my husband says no.
A: The common cold is a virus, and there is no antibiotic treatment for a “cold.” Most antibiotics are used to kill bacteria; however, there are a few antibiotics that do treat viral infections. Valacyclovir treats the herpes infection. Tamiflu is used for early treatment of the flu virus.
Some patients with viral cold symptoms report they feel better when taking a Z-Pak, also known by the brand name Zithromax, which contains the antibiotic azithromycin. They are most likely experiencing either a simple placebo (sugar pill) effect or the anti-inflammatory effects of the antibiotic.
Note, this type of antibiotic overuse sets a very dangerous precedent. Treating a common viral cold with antibiotics like the Z-Pak or penicillin will continue to foster the rapid growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These resistant bacterial cases are increasing and making it more difficult to treat simple bacterial skin infections and sore throats. When you feel the beginning stages of a cold, increase your intake of antioxidant-rich foods and contact your doctor’s office for close monitoring.
– Charles Crump, M.D., internal medicine physician with Parkridge Medical Group – Southside; Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society member