I posted the information about what the literature states (above). I posted it because I think medical staff still way-over prescribe antibiotics. You just need to be careful and read about what they give you. Antibiotics have been a lifesaver for real infections and should be for short periods, not constant and ongoing intake. Personally, I have been treated for many, many UTIs and did not have a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). If they do not follow protocol on clean catch urine samples, there is bacteria caught in the sample, then it shows bacteria in the result. Even when you tell them, no burning, only aching and frequency -- they still prescribe the antibiotics. Part of this is for malpractice protection. They do not look at their process which is faulty. So often, the staff are sloppy or have never been taught to offer cleaning wipes and to give instructions - prior to the part of giving a sample. Catheterization samples = always clean - no bacteria but bladder "slightly reddened". I finally caught on and have found that the aching was all part of this whole inflammatory process and Not an Infection! Overuse of the antibiotics can start a whole cascade of secondary problems. Once offered a "hat" for collection, only to find out that these were not sterilized. Again producing false results. We are in a period where physicians take very little time with the patient, get-them-in and get-them-out (make the $$). You must read up on your ailments and become knowledgeable about any meds you are taking. Often, the pharmaceuticals are produced to fix a specific targeted problem but also, can cause adverse results to other parts of the human system. It is chemistry. The medical-pharmaceutical industry is in business to make money. They are not interested in things like the herbals because you can get those cheaply. It is not to say that you should not take care in these either. Read-Read-Read up on anything you put in your mouth or on/in your body.