Antibiotics

[Kjg14]

What is the average time for taking Antibiotics for a chest infection?

[corriena]

I find anything from 2 weeks onwards. But depends on the infection and what your underlying problems are it may take a while to find the right antibiotics or you may get lucky first time

[RoadRunner44]

Hi, In the event you get a chest infection a broad based antibiotic is usually prescribed and should be prescribed for no less than two weeks. In the meantime a sample of your sputum should be sent for analysis. This will determine the kind of bacteria present and causing the infection. It will dictate the right kind of antibiotic to clear the infection. Hope this helps.

[friendly]

two weeks if you find the right antibiotic, as some do not always agree with you and give you side affects.

[BionicLady]

For me it is generally 14 days straight. As Roadrunner44 says, it is important to get that sputum to GP if you can, but before taking any antibiotics,this is advice from my Respiratory Consultants.

Also, it doesn't depend on what you are dealing with too, some antibiotics just don't work and I have had to take double dose.

I hope that helps.

Keep well 🌈

[Kpacific]

I have Bronch with colonized pseudomonas. When I have an exascerbation, I’m given Cipro or Levaquin for 21 days. It is a difficult drug to take for 3 weeks, but it does the trick for me.

[powderpuff]

It depends on the individual issues & disease severity. NICE guidelines for mild/moderate disease is initially 5 - 7 days.