Interpreting clinical trials and the number needed to treat (NNT)

Case scenario

Natasha, a 23-year-old woman, presents to the pharmacy to speak to the pharmacist following a recent cold. She has nasal congestion, sinus tenderness, dental pain, fever (38.5 °C) and general malaise. Natasha has been using a non-prescription saline sinus flush with no apparent effect. Her friend Molly had similar symptoms months ago and told Natasha a full course of antibiotics solved her problems straight away. A full-time lawyer, Natasha says she must return to work as soon as possible and would like the quickest solution. She asks if antibiotics would be appropriate to alleviate her symptoms.