Antibiotics and Responsible Prescribing
Antibiotics can be life-saving when used appropriately. However, they are not effective for all infections and can cause harm when used unnecessarily. In primary care, careful antibiotic prescribing is essential for both individual patient safety and wider public health.
This page explains when antibiotics are helpful, why they are sometimes not recommended, and how GPs make responsible prescribing decisions.
These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.
What antibiotics are used for
Antibiotics treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral illnesses such as most coughs, colds, flu, and many sore throats.
In primary care, antibiotics may be used where there is evidence of bacterial infection or a higher risk of complications. In other situations, symptoms often improve without antibiotics.
Why antibiotics are not always needed
Many common infections are self-limiting and resolve with time, rest, and supportive care. Using antibiotics in these situations does not usually speed recovery and may cause side effects.
Unnecessary antibiotic use increases the risk of:
- side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, or rash
- allergic reactions
- disruption of normal gut bacteria
- antibiotic resistance
For these reasons, GPs do not prescribe antibiotics routinely for every infection.
How GPs decide whether antibiotics are appropriate
When considering antibiotics, a GP will assess:
- the type and duration of symptoms
- severity and progression
- examination findings (where applicable)
- risk factors such as age or underlying conditions
- previous response to treatment
The decision is based on balancing potential benefit against risk, rather than automatically prescribing.
Delayed and safety-net prescriptions
In some cases, a GP may suggest a delayed prescription. This means antibiotics are only used if symptoms worsen or fail to improve after a specified period.
This approach allows time for natural recovery while ensuring antibiotics are available if needed. Clear safety-net advice is an important part of this plan.
Antibiotic resistance explained
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria adapt and become less responsive to treatment. This makes future infections harder to treat and increases the risk of complications.
Resistance develops through repeated or unnecessary antibiotic use. Responsible prescribing helps protect antibiotics for situations where they are genuinely needed.
Side effects and risks of antibiotics
Antibiotics can cause side effects, even when taken correctly. Common effects include gastrointestinal upset and skin reactions. Some antibiotics can also interact with other medicines.
Rare but serious reactions can occur and require urgent assessment. Understanding risks helps ensure antibiotics are used safely.
Antibiotics in remote GP care
Many infections can be assessed safely during a remote GP consultation. However, some situations require physical examination, tests, or in-person review before antibiotics can be prescribed.
If remote assessment is not sufficient, this will be explained and appropriate next steps advised.
When antibiotics may be essential
Antibiotics are important and appropriate in certain situations, particularly where there is:
- clear evidence of bacterial infection
- risk of serious complications
- failure to improve with supportive care
- specific vulnerable groups
Responsible prescribing does not mean avoiding antibiotics altogether, but using them carefully and appropriately.
When to contact a GP
You should consider contacting a GP if:
- symptoms are worsening or not improving as expected
- you develop new or severe symptoms
- you are unsure whether antibiotics are needed
- you have concerns about side effects or interactions
If symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or associated with serious illness, seek urgent or emergency care.
Further Reading and Hub Links
Visit our Medication and Prescribing hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If you are worried about symptoms or unsure whether antibiotics are appropriate, a GP can help guide you on the safest next step.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 8 February 2026