The introduction of antibiotics has made many previously dangerous diseases easily treatable. But today, more and more of our antibiotics are becoming less effective. Did something go wrong to make them stop working? The problem is not with the antibiotics but the bacteria they were made to fight. Just like any other organisms, individual bacteria can undergo random mutations. Many of these mutations are harmless. However, sometimes the mutation makes the bacteria resistant to a certain antibiotic. Bacteria compete against each other for food. As the non-resistant bacteria are killed off by the antibiotics we use, there is more room for the resistant ones to prosper. Interestingly, the resistance is usually coded by the DNA of bacteria and can be transferred to other bacteria. Over time, as the resistant genes among bacteria multiply, super bacteria that can resist multiple antibiotics can emerge. For instance, super bacteria like salmonella produce chemical substances that break down several types of antibiotics before antibiotics can do any damage to them. Fortunately, there is good news. Scientists are trying to develop novel antibiotics that can kill super bacteria. However, avoiding the unnecessary use of antibiotics, such as for minor infections that can resolve on their own, can be more effective on this matter. Excessive use of antibiotics on animal farms should be also regulated. Giving animals antibiotics to prevent illness or promote growth can generate resistance in animal bacteria that can later be transmitted to humans. In the home, antibacterial cleaning products such as household cleaners or bath products can lead to antibiotic resistance. Studies have shown that plain soap is just as good at killing bacteria in the home as products labeled antibacterial. In the war against super bacteria, decreasing the attacks on bacteria may sometimes work better than increasing the use of antibiotics and antibacterial products against them.

If you've ever had a bacterial infection, you've probably been prescribed antibiotics to treat it. You also likely remember your doctor telling you that it's important to take all your pills, even after your symptoms have gone away. But is there really any harm in not finishing antibiotics once it seems they've done their job? When in Doubt, Stick to the Guidelines Why is it that your doctor recommends finishing your course of antibiotics? It's because taking them regularly until the prescription is complete helps ensure that all of the illness-causing bacteria are killed or prevented from multiplying. Even if your symptoms go away, the bacteria may still be present in your body. If you stop treatment before the antibiotic cycle is over, the remaining bacteria can continue to multiply. If these bacteria become resistant to the antibiotics, they can potentially do even more harm. It may take longer for you to recover from your illness, and your physician may have to prescribe more medication. Talk to Your Doctor If you're concerned about your ability to finish an antibiotic course, be sure to ask your doctor what will happen if you miss a dose. You may be able to take the forgotten pill as soon as you remember, or you may have to wait until your next dose. Don't double up on pills before checking with your physician. If you're anxious to stop taking your prescription early, ask your doctor if it's OK - there may be certain instances when it won't hurt to shorten an antibiotic course. One study found that a two- to four-day course of antibiotics was just as effective as a conventional seven- to 14-day regimen in eradicating a urinary tract infection in children. It's natural to have concerns about antibiotics, but keeping open lines of communication with your doctor will give you the peace of mind that you're taking the right course of action.