Prostate antibiotics: what to know

Prostate inflammation can cause pain in the pelvis or lower back, burning when passing urine, a weak stream, frequent urination, or discomfort with ejaculation. Antibiotics target bacteria; they do not treat every cause of prostate pain or urinary symptoms. A urine sample and, in some situations, other tests help a clinician decide whether treatment is appropriate.

The medicine may need to reach prostate tissue, so the prescribed course can be longer than treatment for some other infections. Do not use leftover tablets or share a prescription. Tell the prescriber about allergies, kidney problems, and other medicines, including supplements.

Take each dose exactly as directed and complete the prescribed course unless the prescriber changes it. If you miss a dose, follow the medicine instructions rather than doubling up. Drink fluids if you have not been told to restrict them, rest, and avoid activities that worsen pelvic discomfort. Ask a pharmacist whether food, antacids, or supplements affect your antibiotic.

Contact the prescriber if symptoms are not improving, return after treatment, or side effects become troublesome. Severe diarrhoea, a widespread rash, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty needs prompt medical advice.

Seek urgent medical care if you cannot pass urine, develop a high fever with shaking chills, become confused or faint, or feel rapidly worse. These symptoms can occur with a serious infection or urinary blockage and should not be managed by changing antibiotics yourself.

Ask which infection is being treated, whether a urine test is needed, how long the course is expected to last, and which side effects require a call. Also ask when improvement should begin and what to do if symptoms continue.