Why this question is important: Stopping antibiotics if you feel better — before the regimen is complete — may not mean that the infection is gone. If not completely eradicated by treatment, the bacteria being treated may become resistant to the antibiotic used. The same goes for skipping doses of the medication — if a bacteria is exposed to a less consistent dose of medication this too will often decrease the effectiveness of the medication. If you're experiencing any side effects from the medication that are making it difficult to complete the regimen, speak to your HCP about your options instead of simply stopping your medicine.