Why are broad spectrum antibiotics not preferred

Question

Why are broad spectrum antibiotics not preferred

Answer 1

Over-prescribing antibiotics, which work only against bacteria, not viruses, is a widely recognized problem. Not only does over-prescribing inflate health-care costs, it also promotes the development of "super-bacteria" that are resistant to antibiotics

The common cold and acute bronchitis do not require antibiotics while ear infections and acute sinusitis may respond to the drugs. Even when there is a benefit, however, broad-spectrum drugs are not necessarily the best choice.

Antibiotics are, literally, lifesavers for people who have weakened immune systems, such as HIV patients, or people who have diabetes. And doctors may be turning to the broad-spectrum drugs first because resistance has already rendered some narrow-spectrum drugs less potent.

Answer 2

Because it is better to use one that the bacteria is definitely sensitive to - quicker recovery. Broad spectrum are beneficial in preventing some infections though eg. if you are having surgery