Principles of appropriate antibiotic use for treatment of nonspecific upper respiratory tract infections in adults

In previously healthy adult patients, the diagnosis of nonspecific upper respiratory tract infection should be used to denote an acute infection in which sinus, pharyngeal, and lower airway symptoms, although frequently present, are not prominent. These infections are predominantly viral in origin, and complications are rare. Purulent secretions from the nares or throat in such patients predict neither bacterial infection nor benefit from antibiotic treatment. Antibiotic treatment of adults with nonspecific upper respiratory tract infections does not enhance resolution of illness or prevent complications.