Excellent points Pegasus.
You must also remember, we have a major problem with bacteria becoming immune to antibiotics through overuse, or misuse. I am pleased to hear vets are not handing them out readily, although I understand your frustration Peety.
Sometimes a chemist will be willing to give you a very small amount of drug, if you tell him what you need it for and how you are going to use it.
Overseas they have a problem with people buying over-the-counter animal remedies to use on themselves.