Quick answer: Yes. Urgent care providers can prescribe antibiotics when you have a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, a UTI, many ear infections, bacterial pink eye or a skin infection. They won’t prescribe antibiotics for colds, flu, COVID-19 or most sore throats and sinus infections, because those are usually caused by viruses and antibiotics don’t work on viruses.
Many people go to urgent care hoping to leave with antibiotics. Sometimes that’s exactly the right treatment. Other times, antibiotics would cause side effects without helping. Here’s how providers decide.
New to PACS? Start with our complete guide to urgent care in Alexandria, VA.
Infections that often need antibiotics
- Strep throat, confirmed by a rapid strep test
- Urinary tract infections. See UTIs.
- Many middle ear infections, depending on age and severity
- Bacterial pink eye (antibiotic drops)
- Skin infections like cellulitis, impetigo or an infected cut or bite
- Some sinus infections that last more than 10 days or get worse after improving. See sinus infections.
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Some sexually transmitted infections
Illnesses antibiotics won’t help
- The common cold
- Flu (though antiviral medicine may help in some cases)
- COVID-19 (antivirals may be an option for higher-risk patients)
- RSV
- Most sore throats that test negative for strep
- Most bronchitis in otherwise healthy adults
- Most stomach bugs
Why providers don’t prescribe antibiotics for everything
Antibiotics can cause side effects like diarrhea, rash, yeast infections and allergic reactions. Using them when they’re not needed also helps bacteria become resistant, so antibiotics may not work when you really need them. That’s why testing matters: a rapid strep test or urinalysis can confirm a bacterial infection in minutes.
How to take antibiotics the right way
- Take them exactly as prescribed, at the right times
- Finish the course unless your provider tells you to stop
- Don’t save leftovers or share them with others
- Tell the provider about any allergies, other medicines or pregnancy
- Call if you get a rash, swelling, or severe diarrhea
Can I get antibiotics through telehealth?
Sometimes, for conditions that can be diagnosed by video, like many cases of pink eye or typical UTI symptoms. If you need a test or exam, the provider will ask you to come in. Compare options in telehealth vs. urgent care.
Frequently asked questions
Will urgent care give me antibiotics for a sinus infection?
Only if the infection is likely bacterial, usually when symptoms last more than 10 days, are severe, or get worse after starting to improve.
Can I pick up my antibiotic the same day?
Yes. Prescriptions are sent to the pharmacy of your choice, usually while you’re still at the clinic.
What if I don’t feel better after starting antibiotics?
Most people feel better within 2 to 3 days. If you don’t, or you feel worse, come back or contact your provider. For more questions, see our urgent care FAQ.
Get care today at PACS Urgent Care
PACS Urgent Care – Alexandria
3481 N Beauregard St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Open 7 days a week, 8 AM – 8 PM · Walk-ins welcome
Call (571) 656-8838 · Get directions · New patient guide
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911.
