Physician-Recommended Antibiotics: When to Use Them and Which Ones Doctors Choose

Antibiotics can fix real bacterial infections fast — but they don’t work for viruses. If you want straight talk: doctors recommend antibiotics only when there’s a clear sign of a bacterial infection or a positive test. Using them when they’re not needed causes side effects and fuels antibiotic resistance.

So how do physicians decide which antibiotic to use? They look at the infection type, severity, allergy history, local resistance patterns, and whether lab tests are available. For common problems, there are usual first-line picks that many doctors start with.

Common physician-recommended choices

These are drugs doctors often prescribe, but your doctor will pick what’s right for you:

Amoxicillin — A go-to for ear infections, strep throat, and some sinus infections. It’s usually well tolerated unless you have a penicillin allergy.

Azithromycin — Used for some respiratory infections and certain sexually transmitted infections. It’s handy when a short course is needed, but resistance is rising in some areas.

Doxycycline — A common choice for tick-borne infections, some skin infections, and acne. Not recommended for young children or pregnant people.

Cephalexin — Often used for skin and soft tissue infections. It’s related to penicillins, so allergies matter here too.

Metronidazole — The usual pick for anaerobic infections and some gut or vaginal infections.

Ciprofloxacin and other fluoroquinolones — Powerful, but doctors reserve them for specific, often more complicated infections because of notable side effects and growing resistance.

How to use antibiotics safely

Follow your prescriber’s instructions exactly. Don’t stop early even if you feel better, and don’t save leftovers for later. If you have a penicillin allergy, tell your provider—there are safe alternatives. Also mention pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney or liver problems, and other medicines you take because interactions matter.

Watch for common side effects like stomach upset, yeast infections, or rashes. Serious reactions are rarer but require immediate medical attention. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve in 48–72 hours, contact your doctor—sometimes the bug is resistant or the diagnosis needs rethinking.

Where you get antibiotics matters. Use a licensed clinic or pharmacy and avoid unverified online sources. Telemedicine can be safe for straightforward infections; just make sure prescriptions come from a credentialed provider and you get clear follow-up instructions.

Want more on specific drugs, dosing, or interactions? Browse the linked physician-recommended articles on this tag to compare options, learn about alternatives, and get practical tips for safe use. If you’re unsure, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist—this is about getting better, not just getting a pill.