At a glance
- Read the label and leaflet before starting.
- Food and timing instructions vary by medicine.
- Do not double up a missed dose unless specifically instructed.
- Ask about side effects, interactions or unclear directions.
Make your plan easy to follow
Check when to take your medicine, whether to take it with food, and how long your prescribed course lasts. These details vary between antibiotics and even between formulations of the same medicine. A pharmacist can explain the instructions before you leave the pharmacy.
If a schedule is hard to manage, ask the prescriber or pharmacist for help rather than taking doses differently.
If something interrupts treatment
Missing a dose happens. The correct next step can depend on the medicine and how close it is to the next dose. Check the patient leaflet or ask a pharmacist. Do not take two doses together just to make up for one unless your healthcare professional specifically tells you to.
Do not save leftover antibiotics or take an expired supply as a substitute for a fresh assessment.
Questions worth asking
Ask what improvement you should expect and when to check back if you are not getting better. Mention other medicines, supplements, allergies, pregnancy or a health condition that could affect the treatment.
Sources
Original referencesThese sources informed this overview. Their organisations do not endorse or review this website.
This page is for general education only. It does not replace advice from a doctor, pharmacist or other qualified healthcare professional. Read our medical disclaimer.