Antibiotics are essential medicines that treat bacterial infections and save lives. However, using antibiotics when they are not needed, or using them incorrectly, can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria change and become resistant to the medicines designed to treat them. This can make infections more difficult to treat, and means that antibiotics may not work as effectively when they are really needed.
Colds and flu are caused by viruses, so antibiotics will not help you recover. Our pharmacy team can advise you on how to manage your symptoms and what to expect while you get better.
Leftover antibiotics may not be suitable for a future illness. Please do not save or share antibiotics with others — you can return any unused medicines to us and we will dispose of them safely.
If you are prescribed antibiotics by your GP, nurse or pharmacist, always follow the instructions you are given.
By using antibiotics responsibly, we can help protect these important medicines and keep them working for ourselves, our families and future generations.
If you have any questions about antibiotics, your medicines or managing your symptoms, please speak to our pharmacy team. We are here to provide professional advice and support — no appointment needed. Together, we can Keep Antibiotics Working.