Unfortunately, antibiotics will not help with acute bronchitis as a virus is usually the cause behind it. Acute bronchitis will generally run its course, and the best way to treat it is to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluid. However, if your acute bronchitis is particularly bad, we may be able to prescribe some medications to help with symptoms. A pain reliever may help with aches and pains, and bronchodilators will help open your airways. We will not suggest cough suppressants unless if you are still coughing up mucus. If the mucus is still coming up when you cough, that means your airways are not cleared yet. A humidifier or sitting in a steamy bathroom after a hot shower also may help relieve some of your symptoms.