Never stop antibiotics midway
Dr Atrey said, “Antibiotics have been one of medicine’s greatest achievements (if not the greatest), saving millions of lives and dramatically improving human survival and quality of life. During our MBBS training, one dictum was drilled into our heads repeatedly – ‘Never stop antibiotics midway’.”
She explained, “The concern is primarily antibiotic resistance, which happens when bacteria adapt and become stronger, leaving us with much fewer treatment options. The risks of incomplete antibiotic use also go beyond resistance. Stopping treatment early may leave behind bacteria that weren’t fully eliminated. These ‘survivors’ can trigger a relapse of infection, often more severe than the first, and usually harder to treat. Such repeated infections can lead to complications, hospitalisations, and a tougher recovery.”
Dr Atrey said, “As a psychiatrist, I see yet another aspect of abruptly stopping them. Antibiotics, while lifesaving, also disrupt the gut’s delicate microbiome, which contains a lot of good bacteria. An incomplete or haphazard course can create more imbalance by wiping out beneficial bacteria unevenly, allowing harmful microbes to flourish. This disturbance doesn’t just affect digestion, as it has also been linked to mental health concerns. Research on the gut-brain axis shows that our intestinal bacteria influence mood, stress, and even cognition. Studies suggest that people with depression often lack certain good bacteria, and experiments have shown that gut changes alone can trigger low mood behaviours.”
According to her, ensuring the infection is fully cleared reduces the risk of recurrence. “That is why completing the antibiotic course is about more than fighting the current infection in the moment. Rather, it’s about preventing relapse, protecting long-term health, and preserving the gut ecosystem that contributes to our mental well-being. Supporting recovery with probiotics, fermented foods, and a balanced diet can also help restore this balance. In short, completing the full course and caring for the gut ensures we protect both our body and mind,” she concluded.
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