What happens if I stop antibiotics early?

For many infections, prescribed courses are now shorter than they used to be and stopping when told is appropriate — but stopping on your own risks relapse and inadequately treated infection. Follow the specific course your prescriber set rather than a general rule.

Do not decide this yourself. Some infections are treated with short courses by design, others need the full duration to prevent relapse or resistance.

If side effects are the reason you want to stop, tell your doctor — switching drug is usually possible and better than stopping.