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Learn how antibiotics can help bacterial infections with a consultation from one of our board-certified doctors online. Get a new prescription for antibiotics or refill an existing prescription.*

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Antibiotics available online
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About antibiotics

Antibiotics are medications designed to treat infections caused by bacteria. Sometimes called antibacterials, they refer to any medication that can effectively kill bacteria or stop the bacteria from reproducing, thus treating conditions caused by bacteria. They can sometimes be prescribed to prevent bacterial infections as well. There are seven types of prescription antibiotics.

What antibiotics treat

Antibiotics are used to treat or prevent infections caused by bacteria. It is sometimes difficult to determine if the infection is caused by a bacteria or a virus because symptoms for both infections may be similar.

Doctors will assess the situation and conduct the necessary examinations to determine the best course of action for the particular infection. This may require a blood or urine test.

Some common bacterial infections that can be treated with antibiotics are:

As noted earlier, antibiotics are not effective against infections caused by viruses (i.e cold and flu).

Types of antibiotics available online

The strongest antibiotic for bacterial infections is a prescription-strength option. There are several types of antibiotic medications, each used to treat different bacterial infections. It’s important to discuss your history of allergies or intolerances of any antibiotics so that your doctor can safely prescribe what is needed and determine the most effective choice for your infection.

Penicillins

Penicillins are the most commonly prescribed antibiotic. Penicillins are prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, including strep throat and other upper respiratory tract infections, bacterial pneumoniagonorrheaUTIs, and more.

Cephalosporins

Cephalosporins can also be used to treat many bacterial infections, including strep throat, gonorrhea, and more. They are also often used to treat skin infections.

Macrolides

Macrolides are often prescribed to treat sinus infectionsear infections, and other bacterial infections. Overuse of this antibiotic has, unfortunately, led it to be less effective than it used to be (due to a phenomenon called “bacterial resistance”), but it can still be the right choice in many situations.

Tetracyclines

Tetracyclines are often used to treat STDs like chlamydia and syphilis, skin infections, and acne, among other bacterial infections.

Others

Other types of antibiotics that do not fit into the above categories include:

How antibiotics work

The antibiotics you are prescribed will depend on the type of bacteria causing the infection.

Antibiotics use a variety of different mechanisms to eliminate or neutralize bacteria, but they generally work by:

  • Directly killing bacteria by weakening their cell walls until they burst and die

  • Inhibiting vital process that allow bacteria to grow and spread new cells

  • Hampering a bacteria’s ability to repair any damage to its DNA, such that it dies

When taken as prescribed, antibiotics are generally well tolerated. They can, however, still cause some side effects.

Different antibiotics will have different side effects. Generally, the most common side effects of antibiotics include

  • Abdominal pain and discomfort

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea

  • Dizziness

  • Photosensitivity (more common with tetracyclines)

  • Fungal infections: Because antibiotics kill off protective bacteria in your body, they can allow certain fungal infections to form, including thrush and vaginal yeast infections.


Speak to one of our convenient online doctors about treatment if you develop these symptoms.


In rare cases, antibiotics may cause serious side effects, including those of a severe allergic reaction. These symptoms include:

  • A fast heartbeat

  • Wheezing

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Feeling lightheaded or faint


If you experience any of these side effects or other life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

One of the main reasons to avoid overusing or misusing antibiotics is that doing so can lead to something called “antibiotic resistance” across the globe.1 Bacteria can replicate at an alarming rate when you have an infection, sometimes as quickly as every five minutes! These bacteria evolve over time because some of them replicate with mistakes, which allow the bacteria to fight off an antibiotic. These bacteria survive and then multiply with that new ability.

It’s important to only take antibiotics when you have a bacterial infection. Your doctor can help guide you in making a decision on whether or not an antibiotic is right for you. 

The following conditions and substances may interfere with the efficacy of antibiotics or cause further complications:

  • Alcohol

  • Grapefruit juice

  • Excess calcium, sugars, or yeasts

  • Being pregnant or breastfeeding


Many antibiotics are safe for pregnant women, but some can be harmful, so tell your doctor if you're pregnant.

Some antibiotics may affect the effectiveness of other medications you are taking. For example, the antibiotic rifampin can affect the birth control pill's effectiveness. This is the only antibiotic known to reduce the effect of birth control pills, usually prescribed for tuberculosis. Aside from rifampin, you should not have any problems taking an antibiotic while on birth control.

Antibiotics risks

Antibiotics are generally safe, but there are some risks if you have other medical conditions or take certain medications.

One of the main risks of taking antibiotics is developing antibiotic resistance. This can occur if you don't complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed to you.

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant. There are many antibiotics that are safe for pregnant women, but some can be harmful.

Antibiotics drug interactions

When you begin a new medication, make sure to tell your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbs you’re taking.

Some antibiotics may affect the effectiveness of other medications you are taking. For example, the antibiotic rifampin can affect the effectiveness of the birth control pill.

Antibiotics FAQs

How should I take antibiotics?

Take antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor. The length of antibiotic treatment and the dosage will depend on your infection type. Based on your type of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed between 3 to 14 days. Complete the course of antibiotics as instructed to avoid a lingering infection. Antibiotics may be taken with food to avoid an upset stomach.

How to get antibiotics without seeing a doctor in person?

You can get antibiotics online by getting a prescription from a board-certified doctor. Before writing your antibiotic prescription, the doctor will diagnose your infection and take your medical history. If their medical judgment leads them to think you have a bacterial infection, they’ll send a prescription straight to your pharmacy. 

We make it easy to speak with a knowledgeable doctor online for antibiotics.

  • Book a doctor’s appointment that is convenient for your schedule.

  • Discuss your medical history and symptoms with your doctor online, who will diagnose your symptoms and provide a treatment plan.

  • If your doctor decides to prescribe you antibiotics, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for you to pick up.

Can a pharmacist give you antibiotics or do I need a prescription?

A pharmacist cannot give you antibiotics without a prescription from a doctor.

Do antibiotics make you tired?

If you get a prescription for antibiotics, you may feel tired and/or fatigued after taking them. This may be a symptom of whatever infection is being treated by the antibiotics or a significant but rare side-effect of the antibiotic itself.

Luckily, tiredness is not a common side effect of most antibiotics. Some antibiotics are more likely to cause fatigue than others, including:

How long does it take for antibiotics to work?

Antibiotics are potent drugs that can start working quickly. For this reason, there are some misunderstandings regarding the length of time it takes antibiotics to work.

Antibiotics begin working as soon as you take them; relief begins within one to three days, but you should continue to take them for the duration as instructed by your doctor so they can fully fight off your infection.

Generally, you should start to feel better within 48 hours. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve by 48 hours, you should see the doctor for a follow-up appointment to discuss next steps. Be sure to follow your doctor’s advice, as some infections require in-person care if symptoms worsen at any time. Your doctor will be able to provide you clear instructions as to what to watch out for. 

Can you be allergic to antibiotics?

Allergic reactions can happen with antibiotics and any medication. Allergic reactions to antibiotics can be mild, but some can be very serious and require immediate medical attention.

If you are allergic to a certain antibiotic, you will react to it almost immediately after administration. Symptoms can vary in type and severity, from a rash (hives),  to trouble breathing, and swelling in the tongue and throat. If you have a severe allergic reaction to an antibiotic, known as anaphylaxis, this can be life-threatening. If you develop these symptoms, you should seek in-person medical attention immediately.

Another type of allergic reaction that can occur with antibiotics is Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a severe illness affecting your mucus membranes and skin. Stevens-Johnson syndrome starts with flu-like symptoms, including sore throat and fever, and can progress to a painful rash that quickly spreads and causes blisters. The top layer of your skin shedding may follow this.

Other symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

  • Skin pain

  • Hives

  • Coughing

  • Swelling in your tongue or face

  • Pain in your throat and mouth


If you develop signs and symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, you should stop taking the antibiotic immediately and seek in-person medical advice straight away.

Can urgent care prescribe antibiotics?

Yes, urgent care centers can prescribe antibiotics. Our telemedicine doctors can also prescribe antibiotics online after taking your medical history and evaluating your symptoms for the appropriate treatment. 

Do I need antibiotics for a wound infection?

For most infected wounds, you should seek medical treatment. Wounds should look and feel better as time goes on. If a wound looks or feels worse, it is likely infected. Specific symptoms of wound infection include:

  • Skin around the wound is red or hot

  • Swelling

  • Oozing pus (a yellowish liquid)

  • Redness may spread to other areas, often in streaks

  • Aches, pains, or fever

  • Malaise


If you experience any severe symptoms of wound infection, you should seek immediate medical care since infections can become life-threatening if improperly treated.

Infected wounds that aren’t treated properly can worsen, leading to loss of limbs or even death. Potential complications from untreated wound infections include:

  • Cellulitis, an infection of deeper tissues that can travel through your blood

  • Sepsis, a severe and potentially life-threatening infection of the blood

  • Necrotizing fasciitis, also known as flesh-eating disease, which leaves large areas of skin painful and damaged


Our doctors frequently prescribe antibiotics for wound infections if deemed safe enough to do so over telemedicine, which can heal the infection quickly and help you avoid any serious complications.

How will the online doctor diagnose my infection as bacterial?

Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections, meaning they are not effective for treating viral or fungal infections. The doctor will be able to diagnose your infection as bacterial based on your symptoms, medical history and the length of infection. If they are unable to comfortably diagnose your infection they will write you a lab referral for testing. Once your results are in they will prescribe you an appropriate treatment plan, including antibiotics online if necessary.

How long will I need to take antibiotics for?

The length of antibiotic treatment and the dosage will depend on the type of infection you have. Typically antibiotics are prescribed for 7 to 14 days. It is important to take the full course of prescribed antibiotics to avoid developing antibiotic resistance.

How long does it take for antibiotics to work?

Antibiotics are potent drugs whose efficacy feels almost instantaneous. For this reason, there are some misunderstandings regarding the length of time it takes antibiotics to work.

Antibiotics begin working as soon as you take them; relief begins within one to three days, but you should continue to take them for 7 to 14 days depending on the severity of infection.

Generally, you should start to feel better within 48 hours. If your symptoms get worse or do not improve within 48 hours, it is likely you are not suffering from a bacterial infection. You should see the doctor for follow up treatment.

How does antibiotic resistance occur?

You’ve probably heard the term “antibiotic resistance” before. It is referring to bacteria that have become immune to certain types of antibiotic treatment due to previous exposure. To avoid antibiotic resistance is it important to complete your prescribed antibiotic treatment to ensure all the bacteria are killed. You should also only take antibiotics when you have a bacterial infection.

Do antibiotics affect birth control?

Most antibiotics do not affect birth control, but it’s important to know which antibiotics do interfere with your birth control and to consult with a physician if you are unsure.

To date, the only antibiotic that is known to reduce the effect of birth control pills is rifampin, which is usually prescribed as a treatment for tuberculosis. Rifampin can decrease estrogen levels in your birth control pill, reducing the pill’s ability to suppress ovulation. Aside from rifampin, you should not have any problems taking an antibiotic while on birth control.

Can you be allergic to antibiotics?

Allergic reactions can happen with antibiotics and any medication. Allergic reactions to antibiotics can be relatively mild, but some can be very serious and require immediate medical attention.

If you are allergic to a certain antibiotic, you will react to it almost immediately after administration. Symptoms differ based on the person, but most allergic reactions manifest in the form of hives, trouble breathing, and swelling in the tongue and throat. If you have a severe allergic reaction to an antibiotic, known as anaphylaxis, this can be life-threatening. If you develop these symptoms you should seek medical attention immediately.

Another type of allergic reaction that can occur with antibiotics is Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a serious illness affecting your mucus membranes and skin. Stevens-Johnson syndrome starts out with flu-like symptoms, including sore throat and fever and can progress to a painful rash that quickly spreads and causes blisters. This may be followed by the top layer of your skin shedding.

Other symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include:

  • Skin pain

  • Hives

  • Coughing

  • Swelling in your tongue or face

  • Pain in your throat and mouth


If you develop signs and symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome you should stop taking the antibiotic immediately and seek medical advice straight away.

How do you prevent antibiotic side effects?

The best thing you can do to reduce the potential for antibiotics side effects is to take them as the label and follow your doctor’s instructions. Most antibiotics should be taken with food, as this can help to improve absorption and prevent an upset stomach. However, some must be taken with just water on an otherwise empty stomach. Always read the information provided with the antibiotic you are prescribed. Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent upset stomach if you cannot take antibiotics with food.

Can antibiotics make you dizzy?

Some antibiotics may cause dizziness. A dizzy feeling may also be caused by your illness or dehydration.

Do I need antibiotics for a wound infection?

For a minor wound infection, it may be enough to keep the wound clean and dry and apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment. For most infected wounds, you should seek medical treatment. Wounds should look and feel better as time goes on. If a wound looks or feels worse, it is likely infected. Specific symptoms of wound infection include:

  • Skin around the wound is red or hot

  • Swelling

  • Oozing pus (a yellowish liquid)

  • Redness may spread to other areas, often in streaks

  • Aches, pains, or fever

  • Malaise

If you experience any severe symptoms of wound infection, you should seek immediate medical care since infections can become life=threatening if improperly treated.

Infected wounds that aren’t treated properly can become progressively worse, leading to loss of limbs or even death. Potential complications from untreated wound infections include:

  • Cellulitis, an infection of deeper tissues which can travel through your blood

  • Sepsis, a severe and potentially life-threatening infection of the blood

  • Necrotizing fasciitis, also known as flesh-eating disease, which leaves large areas of skin painful and damaged


Doctors frequently prescribe antibiotics for wound infection, including:

3 simple steps to getting antibiotics online

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book an appointment to discuss your infection and see if antibiotics are right for you.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your doctor online about your bacterial infection symptoms.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your antibiotics prescription.

We can send antibiotics to any local pharmacy. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion.

Antibiotics pricing details

To get antibiotics online, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

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Paying without insurance

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Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Antimicrobial Resistance. Accessed on June 17, 2024 at https://www.cdc.gov/antimicrobial-resistance/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/drugresistance/about.html

  2. MedlinePlus. Antibiotics. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://medlineplus.gov/antibiotics.html.

  3. Cleveland Clinic. Antibiotics. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16386-antibiotics.

  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Antibiotic Use: Questions & Answers. Accessed on June 17, 2024 at https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/data-research/facts-stats/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/q-a.html

  5. PubMed. Antibiotic Resistance. Accessed on October 10, 2023 at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535443/.




PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.