Why do antibiotics have to be withdrawn completely?

Answer

Antibiotics work in different ways to knock out the bacteria. Sometimes this elimination occurs through a weakening and eventual death of the bacteria. If you stop during the weakening stage, bacteria that have not yet been eliminated have a chance to multiply again and can sometimes develop a resistance to that antibiotic. You can then become ill again and need “heavier” medication. So always stick to the duration of treatment prescribed by your doctor. For some antibiotics this is only 3 days, so that’s not too bad!