Dear Annie:

My sister and brother use too many antibiotics. And they both use only as many pills as they need to feel better and save the rest. I've told both of them that abuse of antibiotics is the No. 1 reason we have superbugs that won't be cured by existing medications. I've warned them they could get seriously ill, but they both ignore my advice.

How can I get them to stop self-medicating with antibiotics for stuff like a bad cold? Also, I believe some doctors prescribe unnecessary antibiotics to get people like my siblings off their back. This strikes me as malpractice. How can this abuse be stopped?－ConcernedDear Concerned:

Doctors should not be prescribing antibiotics for viral infections (like a cold) because they are generally ineffective. But patients often clamor for something and doctors too often accede to their patients' demands. Even when an antibiotic is necessary, by not using the full amount, the infection isn't entirely killed off and what's left is more resistant to the drug, making future infections more dangerous. Unfortunately, there is no medication that will make your siblings smarter and more responsible. Sorry.