2007-02-04 13:02:57 · 6 answers · asked by melissa13182 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Medicine
Neither. Colds are a virus and antibiotics only kill bacterial infections.
2007-02-04 13:05:34 · answer #1 · answered by Mom of Three 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
"Colds" can be caused by either bacteria, viruses or both. It is difficult to differentiate which is responsible for cold symptoms. Regardless, if you are a young healthy individual then you most likely do not need antibiotics. Those at risk should take antibiotics, including: the very young, elder and those with an impair immune system (e.g. organ recipient). Antibiotics can lead to complications, such as yeast infections or colitis (i.e. inflammation of the colon). With any drug, you need to compare the risks and benefits. FYI, both Cephalexin and Clindaymycin has potential side effects. Cephalexin can cause inflammation of the gallbladder while Clindamycin can cause colitis.
2007-02-04 21:19:41 · answer #2 · answered by What the...?!? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should not take either one if it is a cold. Colds are caused by viruses (mainly the Rhinovirus) and Cephalexin and Clindamycin are antibiotics. They only kill bacteria (not viruses) and will do nothing for your cold. How long has it lasted? what are your sypmtoms. The cough is usually the last symptom to go away. If you are really concerned, you should see a physician and never try to self-medicate. There is no cure for the common cold, only medications for symtomatic relief that can be found over-the-counter in any pharmacy.
2007-02-04 21:11:57 · answer #3 · answered by rklst9pitt 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you just have a cold, then antibiotics won't do anything - a cold is a virus. If you have a secondary infection, such as sinus, or bronchial infection, then the antibiotics will help. So it depends on if you have a bacterial infection or not. Your doctor will be the best judge of that.
2007-02-04 21:06:39 · answer #4 · answered by MamaBean 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No such thing as a "long lasting cold". Colds ONLY last 7-10 days. I would investigate the possibilities of allergies or chronic sinusitis. You should call your doctor. (advise coming from a doctor)
2007-02-05 20:49:08 · answer #5 · answered by kds6107 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No. Wishing it were treatable with antibiotics will not make it so, and there are serious potential consequenses to taking the things. It would be a shame for you to get pseudomembranous colitis for no good reason, for instance.
2007-02-04 22:09:31 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋