Commonly used antibiotics are of little help in adults with coughs. More than 2000 adults who complained of a cough were randomly assigned to either get the antibiotic amoxicillin or a placebo for a week. Overall, the antibiotic group had no better relief than the placebo group, including those over 60 years of age. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics increases risk of side effects and the emergence of multi-resistant bacteria.
PositiveTip: Don't beg your doctor for an antibiotic! Pamper yourself with extra sleep and plenty of healthful fluids–and a humidifier at night.