With the cold and flu season not far away many people believe their GP should prescribe antibiotics, when in actual fact the drugs have little or no effect with coughs and colds.

If antibiotics are used too often, germs and infections can build up resistance to the drugs. To prevent that happening here are some myth busters:

• Antibiotics are losing their effectiveness at an increasing rate – bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics, which means they no longer work;

• Many patients expect their GP to prescribe them antibiotics, even for cases that will get better naturally or respond better with other treatments;

• Antibiotics do not work for ALL colds, or for most coughs, sore throats or earache. Your body can usually fight these infections on its own;

• Antibiotics can also cause side effects such as rashes, stomach pains and reactions to sunlight;

• Producing green phlegm or snot is not always a sign of a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics to get better;

• Most infections that result in you producing lots of phlegm or snot are viral illnesses and will get better on their own, although you can expect to feel poorly for a few weeks.

To prevent antibiotic resistance the best thing we can practice is self-care. This means keeping fit and healthy, as well as knowing how to take medicines, treat minor ailments and seek help when you need it.

If you have a long-term condition, self-care is about understanding that condition and how to live with it.

If you get a common cough or cold, please speak with your local pharmacist who can provide you with the best treatment. It can help to keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home to treat a variety of common conditions.

If you want more information on antibiotic resistance please visit http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/ARC/Pages/AboutARC.aspx