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If you forget to take an antibiotic dose, the best approach is to resume your schedule immediately upon realizing the mistake.
Yestock/ThinkStockA curious contradiction exists in how antibiotics are used. Many view them as miracle cures for illnesses, often urging doctors to prescribe them even when unnecessary. However, once prescribed, people frequently fail to follow the medication regimen fully. This issue is especially prevalent with children. For instance, in a study of children with streptococcal infections prescribed a 10-day penicillin course, 56 percent stopped taking the medication by the third day, and 82 percent had quit by the ninth day [source: Merck Manuals].
Adults likely fare no better. Although recent data is scarce, a 1990s study by the American Lung Association revealed that over half of patients admitted to not finishing their antibiotic courses, with about a quarter stopping as soon as they felt better [source: Brody].
Despite warnings from doctors about the risks of antibiotic-resistant infections, many patients still fail to complete their medication. Most cite inconvenience as the primary reason for non-compliance [source: Brody].
Suppose you're diligent and genuinely plan to follow your medication regimen, but due to unforeseen circumstances, you forget to take your pill. What are the consequences?
Missing an antibiotic dose causes the drug's concentration in your bloodstream to decrease, potentially delaying your recovery. It also increases the likelihood of the bacteria developing resistance to the antibiotic [source: Brody].
Fortunately, skipping a single dose is unlikely to cause significant harm. Once you realize the oversight, take your regular dose (avoid doubling up) and adjust your dosing schedule. For instance, if you missed your 8 a.m. dose and took it at 2 p.m. instead, continue taking it at 2 p.m. daily. Extend your treatment slightly and include the missed dose at the end [source: ATS].
