If your cough is viral in nature, like from Covid, a Z-pack or another antibiotic will not help. If you have a bacterial infection causing your cough, an antibiotic might help, but...Z-pack, aka Azithromycin, is a "big gun" in the doctor's tool box, and a lesser medication might be helpful.

Overuse of Z-packs and other antibiotics, which people frequently pick up in Mexico & other places and keep on hand "just in case" or give to family and friends who don't feel well, is causing more bacteria to become antibiotic-resistant, while doing nothing to cure the virus that is causing the illness.

Feeling better is often coincidental because viruses often clear on their own in 3-7 days, about the time most people begin taking an antibiotic. On the other hand, if you have a bacterial infection that needs treatment, you are usually getting worse after a week or so and should call or see the doctor.

Has your cough interfered with your daily routine or made you short of breath? Have you called the doctor's office for advice?
Sue

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