Antibiotics are formulated to help you feel better by killing off harmful bacteria in your body. They usually work immediately, so you might be tempted to discontinue your medication after the initial dose. However, doctors advise their patients to complete their medical prescriptions in their entirety. There are a few key reasons this is so crucial.

How Do Antibiotics Work?

Antibiotics essentially stop harmful bacteria from damaging the inside of your body. The medical prescription may kill off the bacteria or prevent it from multiplying and thriving. The medication is often used to treat problems like skin infections and pneumonia. Different types of antibiotics treat various strains of bacteria, making some more effective for certain problems than others. 

Why Should You Finish Them?

It’s always best to heed your doctor’s professional guidance. If you neglect to finish your prescription, the medication may not have a chance to completely eliminate the harmful bacteria inside your body. Also, if you stop before you’ve fully completed treatment, you can run the risk of prolonging your illness and experiencing new symptoms. In a worst-case situation, your medical provider might need to prescribe new antibiotics, ensuring that you remain on the medication longer than preferred.

What Are the Dangers of Resistance? 

Since bacteria are living organisms that can adapt to hazards and their environment, they can develop a tolerance to medications, which is also known as resistance. Unfortunately, resistance to antibiotics is a common event, and it can lead to several problems, from lengthy hospital stays to elevated medication costs. 

Since resistance is a global problem, combatting certain diseases may one day be near impossible. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that common infections like tuberculosis and pneumonia are both at risk of becoming next to impossible to treat. 

If you’re seeking a dependable pharmacy where you can pick up your medical prescriptions, turn to Gates Pharmacy in Elyria, OH. At this drugstore, you’ll find everything that you need to maintain a healthy home, including medical supplies and vitamins. Visit the website for more information, or call (440) 329-7300 to speak with a representative.