22/11/2025
Have you ever been told to finish your full course of antibiotics, even when you start feeling better?
Let’s talk about why!
1. To Kill ALL the bacteria
When you start taking antibiotics, the weakest bacteria are killed off first, which is why you begin to feel better. But the tougher, more resistant bacteria are still around.
If you stop your treatment early, these stronger bacteria can survive and multiply, causing your infection to return, and this time it will be much harder to treat.
2. To prevent “Superbugs”
It helps prevent the creation of “superbugs.” Every time bacteria are exposed to an antibiotic but aren’t completely wiped out, they get a chance to adapt and learn how to fight it. This is how antibiotic-resistant strain or “superbugs” develop. These superbugs can cause infections that are very difficult, or sometimes even impossible, to treat with our current medicines.
3. To protect everyone
It’s not just about you; it’s about protecting our community. By using antibiotics correctly, you are helping to keep these essential medicines effective for your family, your friends, and future generations.
So remember: always complete the full course, never share your antibiotics, and only take them when they’ve been prescribed for you.
