Letter Re: Choosing Antibiotics to Store for Emergencies

Mr Rawles,
I have been reading Survivalblog for a couple of years now and want to thank you for providing such a wonderful resource. I also participated in the April 8th Amazon book bomb and just finished reading “Patriots: A Novel Survival in the Coming Collapse” ^[1] for the first time. I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting. That being said, I must point out one potentially harmful error in your mention of tetracycline. I am starting my final year of pharmacy school and have been working in my family’s drugstore for 25 years. Tetracycline is the only [antibiotic] drug I know of that actually “goes bad” and becomes toxic when it goes out of date. For this reason, I would not suggest tetracycline for a TEOTWAWKI ^[1] medical kit.

I would suggest that readers consult with their physicians and inquire about susceptibility patterns in their particular geographic location. The major strains of staphlococcus aureus, MRSA ^[2], and the various pathogens that cause pulmonary and upper respiratory infections will vary from region to region. Thus, the choice of antibiotics for your G.O.O.D. ^[3] kit may vary as well. This is a prime example of why all readers should follow your advice and try to diversify the talents in your retreat group. A doctor, pharmacist, RN ^[4], EMT ^[5], PA ^[6], etc. would be a valuable addition. I am fortunate in that regard, as my children’s pediatrician is like minded and goes to church with us.

Keep up the great work. Thanks, – TR in the State of Franklin