Why should you finish a course of antibiotics?

Why should you finish a course of antibiotics?

• A. So that all bacteria are killed and no resistant strains remain
• B. So the medicine lasts longer
• C. To avoid taking other medicines
• D. Because it tastes better

Answer: (A)

Finishing a course of antibiotics helps ensure the infection is truly cleared and reduces the chance of resistance developing. Antibiotics don’t kill every bacterium instantly; some may survive as the drug levels wane. If you stop early, those survivors can regrow, causing the infection to come back and potentially spreading. Moreover, survival of bacteria that faced the antibiotic creates selective pressure for resistant strains, making future infections harder to treat. That’s why completing the prescribed course is important, even if you start feeling better. It’s not about making the medicine last longer, avoiding other medicines, or taste. If you feel unwell or have side effects, talk to a clinician rather than stopping early.

Finishing a course of antibiotics helps ensure the infection is truly cleared and reduces the chance of resistance developing. Antibiotics don’t kill every bacterium instantly; some may survive as the drug levels wane. If you stop early, those survivors can regrow, causing the infection to come back and potentially spreading. Moreover, survival of bacteria that faced the antibiotic creates selective pressure for resistant strains, making future infections harder to treat. That’s why completing the prescribed course is important, even if you start feeling better. It’s not about making the medicine last longer, avoiding other medicines, or taste. If you feel unwell or have side effects, talk to a clinician rather than stopping early.