Antibiotics: What You Should Never Do When Taking Them

Antibiotics are powerful medications that save millions of lives by fighting bacterial infections. However, when used incorrectly, they can do more harm than good. Misusing antibiotics not only makes them less effective but can also contribute to antibiotic resistance, a growing global health problem.

At Farmington Drugs, we believe informed patients make better health decisions. Whether you’ve just been prescribed antibiotics or are finishing a course, understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing how to take them properly.

Here’s a guide to help you take antibiotics safely and effectively—starting with what you should never do.

Understanding How Antibiotics Work

Antibiotics are designed to kill or slow the growth of bacteria that cause infections such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia.

However, antibiotics are not effective against viruses like the common cold, flu, or COVID-19. Taking them when they aren’t needed won’t make you feel better faster—it just increases the risk of resistance and side effects.

That’s why using antibiotics responsibly is crucial to maintaining their effectiveness for everyone.

What You Should Never Do When Taking Antibiotics

While antibiotics are safe and effective when taken correctly, misuse can cause complications. Below are key mistakes to avoid to ensure you get the best results.

1. Never Skip Doses

Antibiotics must be taken exactly as prescribed. Skipping doses or taking them at irregular times can allow bacteria to survive and multiply, making the infection harder to treat.

Even if you feel better, bacteria may still be present in your body. Stopping early or missing doses gives them a chance to return—sometimes stronger than before.

Tip: Set an alarm or use a medication reminder app to stay consistent.

2. Never Stop Taking Antibiotics Early

Many patients stop taking their antibiotics once symptoms improve. This is one of the most common and harmful mistakes.

Your symptoms may fade before the infection is fully cleared. Stopping too soon can lead to relapse and antibiotic resistance, meaning the same antibiotic may not work next time.

Always finish the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel completely fine.

3. Never Share Antibiotics with Others

Your friend or family member may have similar symptoms, but that doesn’t mean they have the same infection—or need the same treatment.

Sharing antibiotics is dangerous because:

• It can delay proper diagnosis for the other person.

• The medication may be wrong for their condition.

• It contributes to bacterial resistance.

Antibiotics should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider who can confirm that they’re necessary.

4. Never Use Leftover Antibiotics

If you have leftover antibiotics from a previous prescription, resist the urge to reuse them.

Leftovers might not be enough to complete a full course, or they may not treat your current infection properly. Using the wrong antibiotic—or an incomplete dose—can make bacteria stronger and harder to eliminate.

If you have unused antibiotics, bring them to Farmington Drugs for safe disposal. Never throw them in the trash or flush them down the drain.

5. Never Mix Antibiotics with Alcohol or Certain Foods Without Asking Your Pharmacist

While moderate alcohol may not interfere with all antibiotics, it’s best to avoid drinking alcohol until your treatment is complete. Alcohol can worsen side effects like nausea, dizziness, and upset stomach.

Certain foods—such as dairy products or calcium-fortified juices—can also interfere with how some antibiotics are absorbed.

Always ask your Farmington Drugs pharmacist if there are foods, drinks, or supplements you should avoid while on antibiotics.

6. Never Take Antibiotics for Viral Infections

Antibiotics treat bacteria, not viruses. If you have a cold, flu, sore throat (without a bacterial cause), or most cases of bronchitis, antibiotics won’t help—and could cause unnecessary side effects.

Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed promotes antibiotic resistance, meaning future bacterial infections may become harder to treat.

Your pharmacist or doctor can help determine whether your symptoms are bacterial or viral.

7. Never Combine Antibiotics with Other Medications Without Checking for Interactions

Antibiotics can interact with other medications, supplements, and even herbal products. These interactions may reduce the effectiveness of your antibiotic or increase side effects.

Before starting antibiotics, tell your pharmacist or healthcare provider about:

• Any other prescriptions or over-the-counter medications you take

• Supplements, including vitamins or herbal remedies

• Medical conditions that could affect how your body processes medications

At Farmington Drugs, we can perform a comprehensive medication review to ensure your antibiotics are safe with your current regimen.

8. Never Ignore Side Effects

While most antibiotics are well-tolerated, some can cause side effects like:

• Nausea or diarrhea

• Skin rash or itching

• Stomach upset

• Yeast infections

Severe allergic reactions, though rare, require immediate medical attention. Signs of a serious reaction include:

• Difficulty breathing

• Swelling of the face or throat

• Severe skin rash or blisters

If you experience side effects that are bothersome or unexpected, contact your doctor or pharmacist right away.

9. Never Store Antibiotics Improperly

Antibiotics should be stored correctly to remain effective. Some need refrigeration, while others should be kept at room temperature and away from sunlight.

Improper storage can change how the medication works or shorten its shelf life. Always check your prescription label and follow the storage instructions provided by your pharmacist.

10. Never Forget to Ask Questions

If you’re ever unsure about your antibiotic—how to take it, how long to use it, or what to avoid—don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist.

At Farmington Drugs, we encourage patients to ask questions such as:

• Should I take this with food or on an empty stomach?

• What side effects should I look out for?

• Can I take this with my vitamins or other medications?

• What should I do if I miss a dose?

Your pharmacist is there to help you use antibiotics safely and effectively.

How Antibiotic Resistance Develops

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria adapt to survive exposure to medications that once killed them. Over time, these bacteria multiply, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of complications.

Resistance can develop when:

• Antibiotics are used unnecessarily

• Doses are skipped or incomplete

• Medications are shared or misused

The best way to combat antibiotic resistance is by using antibiotics responsibly and only when prescribed.

How Your Pharmacy Can Help

Your local pharmacy plays a major role in ensuring antibiotics are used safely. At Farmington Drugs, we provide:

• One-on-one counseling to explain how to take antibiotics correctly

• Medication interaction checks to prevent side effects

• Proper disposal options for unused antibiotics

• Follow-up support to address any side effects or concerns

Our pharmacists also work closely with healthcare providers to ensure every antibiotic prescription is necessary and effective.

Final Thoughts

Antibiotics are one of the most valuable tools in modern medicine—but they must be used carefully. Misuse not only affects your recovery but also contributes to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.

By following your doctor’s instructions, completing the full course, and consulting your pharmacist when unsure, you help protect both your health and the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.

At Farmington Drugs, we’re committed to promoting safe and informed medication use. If you have questions about your antibiotics—or any prescription—our pharmacists are here to help you every step of the way.

Take antibiotics wisely, finish them completely, and always ask before you act.