Poster: What you should know about antimicrobial medications like antibiotics

Organization: Health Canada

Date published: 2024
Pub.: 240675

Antimicrobials include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics. Use only when prescribed.

Antibiotics are the most common type of antimicrobial medication. They work on infections caused by bacteria. Antibiotics do not work on viruses, such as common colds and flu.

Were you prescribed an antimicrobial medication?

YES

• Follow your health care provider's instructions when taking your medications.
• Never share your medications with others.
• Never save your medications for another time.

NO

• Your health care provider determined that an antimicrobial medication isn't needed.
• Use over-the-counter medications to help relieve your symptoms.
• Do not take someone else's medication.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is when germs change in ways that they no longer respond to the medications.

Any use of antimicrobial medication can increase the risk of germs developing resistance making it harder to treat or prevent infections and illnesses.

Protect yourself, your family and your community. Learn more about what you can do to help stop the spread of antimicrobial resistance.