Written by Dr. Sandra Miranda, ND

Depending on the time of year, up to 17% to 21% of all prescriptions given are antibiotics. Now, there is no question that antibiotics can save lives. Unfortunately, there are many instances that these powerful medications are used at times that are unnecessary or not indicated. The misuse of antibiotics can cause drug-resistant germs. If you think this can’t happen to you, then think again. It is a global health concern.
When you rely on antibiotics for health concerns such as acne, recurrent infections (like urinary tract or sinusitis, sore throats or bronchitis), you need to start questioning if this is the right approach to deal with your health problems. If the illness persists or continues coming back, then it is safe to conclude that you are not treating the root cause of the problem.
For example, in a study dated September 2012, the principal finding was that even though most acute sinus infections are viral in origin and antibiotics are of little use in treating such viruses, it was still extremely common to prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics. Furthermore, the study found that the benefits of antibiotics in sinusitis are limited.
Antibiotics do not treat viral infections. If antibiotics are used too often for things they can’t treat — like colds or flus — not only are they of no benefit, they become less effective against the bacteria they should be treating. In addition, the antibiotics will kill the good bacteria (such as acidophilus and lactobacillus) that we have in our digestive tract. This can lead to even more long term health concerns because the immune system weakens even further.
If you are having recurrent infections or if you have been relying too much on antibiotics, it is important that you look into why your immune system may not be working optimally. Our bodies have an innate ability to heal themselves. You may benefit from some needed yet simple nutritional and/or lifestyle changes. In some cases, patients can also benefit from intravenous vitamin treatments to boost up your immunes system. These are treatments that allow the delivery of high doses of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients directly to your cells for effective and quick results.