When the scientific community discovered antibiotics, it changed the world. With antibiotics, medical practitioners can treat bacterial infections that would have previously been untreatable. So, can you buy antibiotics over the counter?
In short, no. Almost all antibiotics are prescription-only, with some notable exceptions for treating Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and minor skin infections. Read on for a more comprehensive breakdown of what antibiotics do and why they are usually prescription-only. If you prefer, you can book in with our minor ailments pharmacy service now if you’d like to talk to a qualified pharmacist about your concerns—there is no charge.
Important: If you are experiencing severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, high fever, chills, or severe pain, make an emergency appointment with your GP, go straight to your local emergency room, or call 111 if you are unable to move.
What Do Antibiotics Do?
Antibiotics are medications used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria directly or stopping them from reproducing, allowing your immune system to do the rest. It’s important to note that antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viral ones. This means they are not prescribed to deal with issues like the common cold, the flu, or COVID-19.
There are many different antibiotic types, each designed to target a specific kind of bacteria. Your GP will determine the most appropriate based on your symptoms, medical history, and test results.
Why Antibiotics Are Usually Prescription-Only
Antibiotics are very powerful, and taking them when they aren’t needed, taking an incomplete course of antibiotics, or using the wrong type can lead to something called ‘antibiotic resistance’. This isn’t a resistance in your body, but to the bacteria, which mutates to stand up to antibiotics instead of being treated.
That’s why antibiotics are carefully regulated and usually only available via prescription in Aotearoa and most parts of the world.
Here is why that matters:
Misuse can lead to resistance.
When antibiotics are taken incorrectly (for example, for a viral illness or in the wrong dosage), bacteria are more likely to become resistant. Antibiotic resistance is a growing global issue. It means common infections become harder to treat, requiring stronger medications or longer hospital stays.
Diagnosis matters.
Not all infections need antibiotics. Sometimes symptoms that feel like a bacterial infection are caused by viruses or allergies. A healthcare professional can evaluate your symptoms and make the right call about whether antibiotics are the best option.
The best treatment is tailored.
There are many different types of bacteria and just as many antibiotics. A GP or pharmacist with prescribing authority needs to match the correct antibiotic to the type of infection while ensuring it won’t interfere with any other medications you're taking.
Side effects are possible.
Antibiotics can cause side effects like nausea, rashes, or more severe allergic reactions in some people. A healthcare provider will ask about your medical history and allergies to help you choose the safest option.
All of this accounted for, there are a few tightly-controlled exceptions to this rule in New Zealand.
One is a pharmacist-only over-the-counter antibiotic for the treatment of UTIs. To access this, you’ll need to chat with your local pharmacist (book in through our minor ailments pharmacy service), who will assess your symptoms and ensure it’s safe to proceed.
Another is topical antibiotics for mild skin infections, which your pharmacist can also help you select.
What to Do if You Think You Have a Bacterial Infection
If you are concerned about your health and suspect you might need an antibiotic prescription, there are a few things you can do:
- Reach out to Healthline at 0800 611 116 to ask about your symptoms and figure out what is next.
- Book an appointment with your GP, and let them know the severity of your concerns.
- Book a session in our minor ailments pharmacy service for expert guidance.
Remember, if you are experiencing symptoms of a severe bacterial infection (i.e. high fever, chills, persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, severe pain), book an emergency appointment with your GP or call 111 if you cannot move to get treatment.
In summary, almost all antibiotics are only available via prescription because antibiotic abuse can create antibiotic-resistant infections that can create major problems for everyone. The exceptions are a specific group of antibiotics for UTIs, which are available only from qualified pharmacists, and topical antibiotics to help manage skin infections.
Feeling unwell? Visit our minor ailments pharmacy service.
If you’re dealing with a minor ailment like a headache, cold, or indigestion, antibiotics are usually not the right approach for you. Luckily, relief is within reach.
At Life Pharmacy, our team of expert pharmacists is ready to provide you with fast, personalised advice and effective treatment options for small health concerns that are disrupting your day. Book in with your local minor ailments pharmacy service today.
