Should Connecticut residents stockpile antibiotics to protect themselves against bio-terrorism?
The Connecticut DPH strongly recommends against stockpiling antibiotics, as the use of antibiotics in the absence of evidence indicating a bioterrorist attack is not without risk. Inappropriate use of antibiotics may cause the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of common bacterial diseases. In addition, using antibiotics without a doctors prescription may cause serious adverse reactions including: diarrhea, abdominal symptoms, rash, allergic reactions, and potentially dangerous interference with other medications. Individuals who stockpile antibiotics would also be more likely to use medications that have expired. Additionally, stockpiling could lead to shortages of national supplies for routine or emergency use.
