Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following antibiotic-related questions:

1. Are antibiotics required to treat my medical condition? Should I try something else before taking antibiotics?
   
   
2. Which antibiotics are likely to help my condition?
   
   
3. What are the side effects associated with the antibiotics you are recommending for me? Are there alternative types of medications you recommend?
   
   
4. Which, if any, side effects should I immediately report to you? Which are likely to resolve with time?
   
   
5. What is the risk of my developing diarrhea or pseudomembranous colitis with the antibiotics you are recommending? Is this of particular concern for me?
   
   
6. If these side effects or complications occur, how should they be treated? Are there over-the-counter medications you recommend?
   
   
7. Are there any over-the-counter medications that I should avoid taking while using the antibiotic you are prescribing?
   
   
8. Are there any dietary changes I can make to reduce the potential side effects of these antibiotics?
   
   
9. Are there any lifestyle changes that may help?
   
   
10. Are antibiotics safe to use if I am pregnant or breastfeeding? What types of antibiotics would you recommend in these cases?