No, antibiotics will not help cold symptoms. Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics do not fight viruses; they fight bacteria.
Taking antibiotics for viruses such as a cold will not cure the infection, prevent others from catching it or help you feel better. Taking antibiotics for viruses when they are not needed can put you at risk for getting a bacterial infection resistant to antibiotic treatment.
If cold symptoms arise, talk to your healthcare provider for information on what will help relieve symptoms and help you feel better faster. – Amber Sawyer, former pharmacy resident