For many common childhood infections, less is more.
If your child has ever had an earache, a sore throat, or a stubborn cough, chances are you’ve left the pediatrician’s office with a prescription for antibiotics. But in a growing number of cases, doctors are saying: not so fast.
Across the country, pediatricians are rethinking how—and when—they prescribe antibiotics in children, especially for everyday illnesses that often clear up on their own. It’s not because they’re withholding care. It’s because more isn’t always better.
Here’s what’s changing—and what you should know before your next doctor’s visit.
Antibiotics Aren’t Always the Answer
For decades, antibiotics were the go-to solution for just about any infection in kids. But now, leading medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the CDC are urging caution. That’s because antibiotics only work against bacterial infections—and many common childhood illnesses are caused by viruses.
In fact, research shows that antibiotics are still overprescribed in children, particularly for conditions like:
- Ear infections
- Sore throats
- Bronchitis
- Sinus infections
- Pink eye
In many of these cases, kids can recover just as quickly—if not faster—without antibiotics. And skipping them can reduce the risk of side effects and complications.
When Kids Don’t Need Antibiotics
So how do you know when antibiotics are truly necessary? Here’s a general rule of thumb:
✅ Bacterial infections like strep throat, bacterial pneumonia, or certain ear infections may need antibiotics—especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.
🚫 Viral infections like colds, flu, RSV, and most coughs and sore throats do not improve with antibiotics.
Doctors are also using a “watchful waiting” approach more often. For example, a mild ear infection might be monitored for 48 hours to see if symptoms improve before prescribing anything. Many clear up on their own.
“Parents often want to do something right away to help their child feel better,” says Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson, a pediatrician and digital health expert. “But sometimes, the best thing we can do is give the body time to fight the infection naturally.”
The Risks of Overprescribing
While antibiotics can be life-saving when truly needed, unnecessary use comes with real downsides, including:
- Side effects like diarrhea, rashes, and nausea
- Disruption of the gut microbiome, which can affect digestion and immunity
- Antibiotic resistance, which makes future infections harder to treat
- Allergic reactions, especially with broad-spectrum antibiotics
In fact, the CDC estimates that at least 28% of antibiotics prescribed to children are unnecessary. Over time, this overuse can make antibiotics less effective for everyone—not just your child.
What Parents Should Ask the Doctor
You don’t need to be a medical expert to make informed decisions. If your child’s doctor recommends antibiotics, it’s okay to ask:
- Is this infection viral or bacterial?
- Are antibiotics the only option?
- Can we wait 24–48 hours and reassess?
- What symptoms should prompt us to fill the prescription?
- Are there ways to manage pain or discomfort in the meantime?
And if your child isn’t prescribed antibiotics, that doesn’t mean their illness isn’t being taken seriously. It means your doctor is practicing cautious, evidence-based care—and helping protect your child’s long-term health.
When in doubt, open the conversation. Your pediatrician wants what’s best for your child, just like you do.
