Which practice is an example of antibiotic misuse that can contribute to resistance?

Which practice is an example of antibiotic misuse that can contribute to resistance?

• A. Prescribed for viral infections
• B. Taking antibiotics 'just in case'
• C. Skipping doses
• D. Stopping early when feeling better

Answer: (A)

Misuse occurs when antibiotics are used inappropriately, such as prescribing them for infections caused by viruses. Antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses, so there is no benefit to the patient. Giving antibiotics for a viral infection only exposes bacteria in the body to the drug, creating selective pressure that favors resistant strains and makes future infections harder to treat. This is the classic example of misuse that feeds resistance. Other risky behaviors, like taking antibiotics “just in case” or skipping or stopping doses early, also promote resistance by exposing bacteria to suboptimal levels or unnecessary exposure, but prescribing for a viral infection is the clearest illustration of misuse.

Misuse occurs when antibiotics are used inappropriately, such as prescribing them for infections caused by viruses. Antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses, so there is no benefit to the patient. Giving antibiotics for a viral infection only exposes bacteria in the body to the drug, creating selective pressure that favors resistant strains and makes future infections harder to treat. This is the classic example of misuse that feeds resistance. Other risky behaviors, like taking antibiotics “just in case” or skipping or stopping doses early, also promote resistance by exposing bacteria to suboptimal levels or unnecessary exposure, but prescribing for a viral infection is the clearest illustration of misuse.