Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics are an important tool for treating bacterial infections, but they only work when a bacterial infection is actually present and only stay effective long-term when used appropriately. Family Medicine Associates prescribes antibiotic therapy for adults in Westfield based on careful evaluation and current clinical guidelines. 

Our Approach to Antibiotic Stewardship

Antibiotic stewardship means using antibiotics only when they’re likely to help, choosing the right antibiotic and dose for the specific infection, and avoiding antibiotics for illnesses that will resolve on their own, such as most viral colds. This protects your own health, since unnecessary antibiotics can cause side effects, and it helps preserve antibiotic effectiveness for the wider community by limiting antibiotic resistance. 

Conditions Commonly Treated With Antibiotics

  • Bacterial sinus infections 
  • Strep throat and other confirmed bacterial throat infections 
  • Certain tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease 

What to Expect

  • An evaluation of your symptoms and, when helpful, testing to confirm a bacterial cause 
  • A prescription matched to the specific infection, rather than a one-size-fits-all antibiotic 
  • Clear guidance on how to take the full course, even after you start feeling better 
  • Follow-up if symptoms don’t improve as expected 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won’t I always get antibiotics when I feel sick? 

Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. Many common illnesses, including most colds and some sinus infections, are viral and don’t respond to antibiotics. Prescribing them in those cases doesn’t help and can contribute to side effects and antibiotic resistance. 

Is it okay to stop taking antibiotics once I feel better? 

It’s important to finish the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better early on. Stopping early can allow the infection to return and contributes to antibiotic resistance. 

What if my infection doesn’t improve on antibiotics? 

Contact our office if you don’t notice improvement within the expected timeframe. You may need a different antibiotic, further testing, or evaluation for another cause.