Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam

What is a potential consequence of not completing a full course of antibiotics?

1. Allergy

2. Increased side effects

3. Arrhythmias

4. Bacterial resistance

The correct answer is: Bacterial resistance

Not completing a full course of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance, which is a significant consequence in the treatment of infections. When a patient stops taking antibiotics prematurely, it may not fully eradicate the bacteria causing the infection. The remaining bacteria that survive may be those that have developed some level of resistance to the antibiotic. As a result, these resistant bacteria can multiply, leading to an infection that is more difficult to treat in the future, requiring stronger or alternative antibiotics that may be less effective or have more severe side effects. This is a growing concern in public health, as the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections poses challenges for healthcare providers and can lead to longer illnesses, increased medical costs, and higher mortality rates. Understanding the importance of completing prescribed antibiotic courses is crucial for both individual patient health and the broader effort to combat antibiotic resistance in the community.