There’s a running joke in healthcare that everyone and their mother thinks a Z-Pak is the magic cure for anything that feels even a little “off.” Sniffles? Z-Pak. Tickle in the throat? Z-Pak. Woke up tired? Must need a Z-Pak. I say this with love: that’s not how antibiotics work. And it’s actually a good thing. Antibiotics aren’t throat lozenges. They’re powerful medications that require precision, intention, and—yes—a prescription. Not because healthcare providers want to m