With the increase in respiratory conditions throughout the year, the prescription of antibiotics became common in childhood. Pediatricians, however, reinforce an important warning: not all inflammation or infections require this type of medication. In viral cases, which are quite common in children, antibiotics have no effect and can cause lasting impacts on health.
According to the pediatrician Hamilton Robledoyes São Camilo de São Paulo Hospital Network, the medicine does not only act on harmful bacteria. “The antibiotic does not select targets. It also eliminates beneficial bacteria, essential for the body’s balance”explains. This process can cause important changes in the microbiota intestinaldirectly affecting immunity.
The invisible impacts of repeated use
The recurrent use of antibiotics in the first years of life can have consequences that go beyond the immediate treatment of the infection. Studies associate this habit with a series of medium and long-term side effects.
Among the main risks are the intestinal imbalancewhich can cause frequent diarrhea and a reduction in the body’s natural defenses, in addition to increasing prone to allergiessuch as asthma, rhinitis and food intolerances.
Another critical point is the advancement of bacterial resistance. When repeatedly exposed to antibiotics, bacteria become stronger and more adapted, making future treatments more difficult. In situations of excessive use, experts also observe associations with impacts on the child developmentincluding neurological aspects, still under scientific investigation.
When antibiotics are essential
Despite the risks of inappropriate use, antibiotics continue to be an essential medical tool when properly indicated. It is essential in cases of proven bacterial infectionsuch as pneumonia, urinary tract infection and otitis with the presence of pus.
In these situations, clinical diagnosis combined with exams is decisive to define the correct treatment and avoid serious complications.
Essential guidance for parents and caregivers
To reduce risks and ensure safer care in 2026, experts reinforce some practical recommendations:
- Wait for medical evaluation in mild cases, such as low fever, runny nose and cough, generally associated with viruses.
- Question the need for confirmatory tests, such as testing for streptococcus in cases of sore throat.
- Totally avoid self-medication and the use of leftover antibiotics from previous treatments.
- Prioritize support measures, such as hydration, rest and fever control, which are usually sufficient in viral infections.
- Keep the vaccination schedule updated, reducing the risk of diseases that can develop into bacterial infections.
For Dr. Robledo, the responsibility is shared between doctors and families. “Using antibiotics judiciously protects children’s health today and preserves the effectiveness of these medicines for the future”he concludes.
