Antibiotic resistance is becoming one of the biggest health threats worldwide. When antibiotics are used incorrectly or excessively, bacteria learn to resist them—making common infections harder to treat. Doctors warn that if we don’t use antibiotics responsibly today, future treatments may stop working altogether.
Here are the 5 doctor-recommended tips to avoid antibiotic resistance:
1. Don’t take antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription
Many people take antibiotics for fever, cold, cough, or body pain—but these are usually viral infections. Antibiotics cannot kill viruses, so taking them unnecessarily increases resistance. Always consult a doctor first.
2. Complete the full course—even if you start feeling better
Stopping antibiotics halfway leaves some bacteria alive. These leftover bacteria become stronger and resistant. Always finish the prescribed course completely.
3. Never share or reuse leftover antibiotics
Taking someone else’s medicine or using old, leftover antibiotics leads to improper treatment. Each infection requires a specific antibiotic, dose, and duration based on the doctor’s evaluation.
4. Avoid demanding antibiotics from doctors
Patients often pressure doctors for antibiotics to “get well quickly.” This is harmful. Trust your doctor—if they say antibiotics are not needed, follow their advice.
5. Maintain good hygiene to reduce infections
Handwashing, eating clean food, avoiding contaminated water, and keeping your surroundings clean reduce the chance of infections—meaning you’ll need antibiotics less often.
