Health Tip: Take an Antibiotic Properly
03/22/11
(HealthDay News) -- It's important to take an antibiotic exactly
as prescribed and to finish the entire prescription, experts say.
To help prevent harmful bacteria from becoming resistant to your
antibiotic, don't stop taking the medication just because you feel
better.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers these guidelines to
help you take an antibiotic properly:
- Finish your prescription without missing any dose -- even if
you stop feeling sick. Don't stop taking it because you want to
save some of the medication for a future illness.
- Only stop taking the antibiotic if your doctor tells you to do
so.
- Avoid sharing your antibiotic with anyone else.
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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.