Antibiotics should only be used for severe infections or infections that last more than 2 weeks, since these may be caused by bacteria. Antibiotics can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain or allergic reaction, so it's important to discuss this with the doctor beforehand and to know what to do if you do develop symptoms. Ask about potential interactions. Seniors, who may be taking a number of different medications, should be especially cautious about potential interactions. Complete the dose.
People sometimes stop taking an antibiotic when they feel better.
However, even if the symptoms go away, the bacteria may still linger, so it's best to take an antibiotic for the full period of time prescribed by your doctor. As with any drug, you should never take an antibiotic that was prescribed for someone else or that was prescribed for a previous illness. A doctor bases his decision to prescribe antibiotics on several things, including your symptoms and your lab test results. If you have any questions or concerns about antibiotics or any medication, it's best to discuss them with a qualified healthcare professional. All Concept Communications material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care.