Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Cells, Microbes & Viruses => Topic started by: Steve Moss on 28/10/2009 09:30:02

Title: Why should you always complete a course of antibiotics?
Post by: Steve Moss on 28/10/2009 09:30:02

Steve Moss asked the Naked Scientists:
   
For what reason(s) must you always complete a course of antibiotics?

What do you think?

Title: Why should you always complete a course of antibiotics?
Post by: Nizzle on 28/10/2009 10:07:36

Main reason: To be sure all bacteria are dead.
If you bring bacteria in contact with Antibiotics, but not in sufficient quantities or for a long enough period, there's a chance that there will be selection of the bacteria with a resistance for the taken Antibiotic.
Then, this one bacteria that underwent this selection might multiply in your body and next time, the Antibiotic you've taken before will not work anymore.

Title: Why should you always complete a course of antibiotics?
Post by: LeeE on 28/10/2009 19:53:28

Yes, as Nizzle says, it is to ensure that all of the bacteria are killed and that none survive to build up and pass on a tolerance to the antibiotic, which would render it useless.