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    Pneumonia

    Pneumonia



    Medications

    Doctors use Reference antibiotics to treat pneumonia that is caused by bacteria. Although experts differ on their recommendations, the first antibiotic used is usually one that kills a wide range of bacteria (broad-spectrum antibiotic).Reference 8, Reference 9 All antibiotics used have a high cure rate for pneumonia.Reference 5

    There are many types of antibiotics. Reference Your doctor will decide which antibiotic will work best for you. In most cases, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics without first identifying the exact organism causing the illness.

    If you don't get better with your first antibiotic, your doctor may add a second antibiotic to cover other bacteria that are not being treated with the first one. Or you may have more testing to identify the specific organism that is causing the pneumonia.

    Sometimes doctors use two antibiotics when first starting treatment.

    What to think about

    More and more bacteria are becoming resistant to certain antibiotics, making them less effective. An example of this is MRSA, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which is resistant to many types of penicillin. To help fight antibiotic resistance, ask your doctor Reference how to take your antibiotics correctly, such as always finishing your prescription.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference November 15, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Medical Toxicology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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