When does a cough need antibiotics, and when will they not help?
Most coughs from colds or uncomplicated acute bronchitis do not need antibiotics. A clinician assesses whether a treatable infection, such as certain pneumonias or whooping cough, is likely. Sputum colour alone does not prove a bacterial infection.
Details
Treat the cause, not the symptom label
Cough may reflect a virus, asthma, reflux or a medicine, so no antibiotic suits every case. Even a cough continuing for a few weeks after infection does not automatically mean treatment failed or a stronger antibiotic is needed.
Why avoid unnecessary treatment?
Antibiotics can cause diarrhoea or allergy and promote resistance without treating viruses. Do not use leftover prescriptions or another person’s medicine. If treatment is prescribed, follow instructions and seek review for deterioration rather than switching it yourself.
When assessment matters
Breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, persistent fever or marked worsening calls for prompt evaluation. Older adults, immunocompromised people and those with chronic illness need assessment appropriate to their risks. Chest examination, oxygen measurement or imaging may be needed when complications are suspected.
Related reading: How long can a post-infectious cough last, and when should it be assessed?.