If you have started taking an antibiotic for an infection which testing subsequently shows you are unlikely to have, then it is sensible to stop that antibiotic. The risk of bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics is increased the longer they are exposed to that antibiotic.
If the antibiotic isn’t needed, stopping it can limit exposure. This will hopefully prevent bacterial resistance developing.
If you are stopping taking your antibiotics early, you should then return the remaining pills to the pharmacy for safe disposal. Do not flush away or throw down the sink into the water system. This will also help reduce the risk of bacteria developing resistance within our environment.
Always consult your doctor before stopping antibiotics early.
Category:
Antibiotic Resistance