Are You On A Course Of Antibiotics?

For decades, doctors have prescribed antibiotics as a common solution to treat or prevent infections. After injury, surgery, or illness, bacteria or other external irritants can lead to more severe complications. Antibiotics help clear up infections or viruses that are not serious but can spread if left untreated. Some reduce the risk of serious complications. A common antibiotic prescription lasts 7-14 days. Patients on antibiotics can feel better after a few days, with many tempted to stop treatment immediately. Yet, this habit can be counterproductive, leading to unintended health consequences. Learn why antibiotics matter and why patients should continue and complete the entire course.

Why do you feel better before the infection is gone?

Antibiotics reduce bacterial growth, which causes many symptoms like pain and fever. In some cases, antibiotics can reduce symptoms almost immediately. These sudden changes can tempt patients to stop treatment, but feeling better is not a reliable indicator that the infection is gone. A reduction in symptoms is not an indicator that all the bacteria are gone. A course of antibiotics is meant to eradicate the bacteria population. Stopping prematurely increases the chance that some bacteria survive, multiply, and potentially cause a relapse of symptoms.

What happens when you stop early?

Choosing to quit antibiotics early can have serious consequences. Antibiotics may be prescribed after surgery to reduce the risk of infection. Stopping too soon may lead to an infection, longer recovery times, and additional doctor visits. Stopping antibiotics before time creates an incomplete eradication of bacteria. The surviving bacteria can become stronger or more resistant. Patients with severe infections can require more care and medical attention if bacteria spread to other organs. The development of resistant bacteria is also common as the bacteria survive to resist antibiotics. The increased resistance can make infections more difficult to treat. Patients can also pass on infections to others, creating an unwanted domino effect.

How to safely take antibiotics

Antibiotics should be taken safely and as prescribed. A pharmacist will provide detailed instructions in terms of dosage and possible drug and food interactions. Take all antibiotics as prescribed, finishing the entire course. Avoid skipping doses, as the bacteria can still survive and develop resistance. Dispose of past antibiotics and speak with a doctor about any new infections. Do not use leftover antibiotics to treat new illnesses. Antibiotics are treatment options for infections like strep throat, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or bacterial pneumonia. For the best results, use antibiotics as prescribed, along with other medications for pain or other symptoms.

What about side effects?

Sometimes, antibiotics can cause unpleasant symptoms, including nausea, upset stomach, or diarrhea. Do not stop taking antibiotics without speaking with a doctor, as the infection can return. Some people may have allergic reactions to antibiotics. Seek out medical attention immediately for new symptoms or side effects. The medical team can change the type of antibiotics or adjust the dosage. The goal is always to complete the prescribed course to eliminate the chances of more potent bacteria developing.

Let antibiotics take their course

Dealing with infections or the possibility of infection can be a challenge. A course of antibiotics can help destroy bacteria that are causing an illness or slowing down healing. Antibiotics can start working almost immediately, tempting patients to stop the treatment before the course is complete. Doctors recommend continuing the treatment even if patients feel better. Stopping too early can have consequences and prolong a full recovery. There can be additional medical expenses in doctor visits and prescriptions. Taking antibiotics for 7-14 days can be difficult and may even disrupt daily activities. However, the added time to complete antibiotics safeguards health and reduces the possibility of resistance.