Antibiotics at Urgent Care
Urgent care centers are staffed by physicians and nurse practitioners who can diagnose bacterial infections and prescribe antibiotics when medically appropriate.
Common Conditions Treated with Antibiotics
- Strep throat: Confirmed with rapid strep test
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Diagnosed via urinalysis
- Sinus infections: When bacterial (not viral)
- Ear infections: Especially in children
- Skin infections: Cellulitis, infected wounds
- Bronchitis: When bacterial component suspected
- Pink eye: Bacterial conjunctivitis
What to Expect
- Provider evaluates your symptoms
- May run rapid tests (strep, flu, UTI)
- Determines if antibiotics are appropriate
- Prescription sent to your pharmacy
Important Notes
- Antibiotics don't work on viruses: Cold, flu, and most coughs are viral
- Providers follow guidelines: Won't prescribe unnecessarily
- Complete the full course: Even if you feel better
Cost
The urgent care visit is separate from prescription cost:
- Visit: $100-$250 (or copay with insurance)
- Generic antibiotics: $4-$20 at most pharmacies
- Brand-name antibiotics: $50-$200+