Compare Antibiotics: Find the Right One for Your Infection

When you need an antibiotic, a medicine used to treat bacterial infections by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria. Also known as antibacterial agents, they’re not interchangeable—each targets specific bugs, carries unique risks, and works differently in your body. Too many people think all antibiotics are the same, but that’s dangerous. Taking the wrong one won’t help your infection and might make it worse—or lead to antibiotic resistance, a growing global threat.

Some antibiotics, like penicillin, a beta-lactam antibiotic commonly used for strep throat and skin infections, are narrow-spectrum and hit only certain bacteria. Others, like doxycycline, a tetracycline-class drug often used for acne, Lyme disease, and respiratory infections, are broad-spectrum and affect a wider range of bugs. That sounds powerful, but it also means more disruption to your gut bacteria, leading to diarrhea or yeast infections. Then there’s ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone used for urinary tract and respiratory infections, but linked to tendon damage and nerve issues. These aren’t just names—they’re choices with real trade-offs.

When you compare antibiotics, you’re not just looking at price or how many pills you need to take. You’re asking: Does this match the bug causing my infection? Will it interact with my other meds? Could it cause dizziness, nausea, or a serious allergic reaction? And most importantly—do I really need it? Over 30% of antibiotic prescriptions in the U.S. are unnecessary, according to CDC data. That’s not just waste—it’s fuel for superbugs. The right antibiotic saves time and avoids side effects. The wrong one does the opposite.

Some people think if one antibiotic didn’t work, the next one should be stronger. But that’s not how it works. Bacteria evolve. What failed before might fail again, even with a different drug. That’s why testing—like a throat swab or urine culture—is so important. It tells your doctor exactly which bug you have and which drugs will actually kill it. If you’ve been told you’re allergic to penicillin, get tested. Most people aren’t truly allergic, and avoiding penicillin means using riskier, more expensive alternatives.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons between antibiotics and their alternatives. You’ll see how one drug stacks up against another for common infections, what side effects to watch for, and how to avoid mistakes that lead to longer illness or worse outcomes. No fluff. No marketing. Just clear, practical info to help you understand what’s in your prescription—and why it matters.