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Antibiotic Resistance
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Infections

Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to survive the medicines designed to kill them, making infections harder to treat and potentially life-threatening.

What are antibiotics?

Antibiotics are medicines that treat bacterial infections in humans and animals. They work by killing the bacteria or making it hard for the bacteria to grow and multiply. When used properly, antibiotics can save lives. But there is a growing problem of antibiotic resistance.

What is antibiotic resistance?

Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria change and can resist the effects of an antibiotic. The bacteria are not killed, and they continue to grow. The infections these bacteria cause are called resistant infections. Resistant infections can be difficult, and sometimes impossible, to treat. In some cases, they can even be deadly.

Antibiotic resistance does not mean that your body is resistant to antibiotics.

There are many different types of resistant infections. They include MRSA and drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). If you get a resistant infection, you might need:

  • A long hospital stay
  • A long recovery
  • Follow-up visits with health care providers
  • Treatments that are expensive and may have severe side effects

Antibiotic resistance is one type of antimicrobial resistance. There are other types; viruses, fungi, and parasites can also become resistant to medicines.

How do bacteria become resistant to antibiotics?

Antibiotic resistance is a natural process that happens over time. To survive, bacteria can develop defense strategies against antibiotics. This happens through genetic changes in the bacteria. These resistant bacteria survive, grow, and spread.

Each time you take antibiotics, there is a risk that the bacteria will become resistant. So it is important to only take antibiotics when you really need them. They won't work on viral infections such as colds and the flu. And you don't need antibiotics for every bacterial infection. For example, you may not need them for some sinus and ear infections.

Who is more likely to develop an antibiotic-resistant infection?

Anyone can develop an antibiotic-resistant infection, but certain people may be at higher risk, including those who:

  • Have a weakened immune system from diseases such as HIV or from taking medicines that affect the immune system
  • Are getting medical care such as surgery and hospital stays
  • Take antibiotics for a long time
  • Are infants, especially if they were born prematurely
  • Are older adults

How can antibiotic resistance be prevented?

There will always be some antibiotic resistance, since it happens naturally. But you can help fight against antibiotic resistance by taking these steps:

  • Don't use antibiotics for viruses.
  • Don't pressure your health care provider to give you an antibiotic if they don't think you need one.
  • When you take antibiotics, follow the directions carefully.
  • Don't share your antibiotics with others.
  • Don't save antibiotics for later or use someone else's prescription.
  • Help prevent the spread of bacterial infections with good hygiene habits. These include washing your hands often and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment for resistant infections often requires a longer duration of therapy than standard infections. While a typical bacterial infection might resolve in 5 to 7 days, a resistant infection may require weeks or even months of treatment. This extended timeline is because doctors often need to use combination therapies or second-line drugs that are less potent or have slower onset times. Patients should expect a slower recovery trajectory and must adhere strictly to the extended regimen to prevent the bacteria from developing further resistance.
Signs that an antibiotic is failing include a lack of improvement or worsening of symptoms after 48 to 72 hours of consistent use. Specific warning signs include a return of fever, increased pain, swelling, or redness at the infection site, or the development of new symptoms. If you experience these changes, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not stop taking the medication on your own, as this can further encourage resistance, but do not wait for your next scheduled appointment if your condition is deteriorating.
There is no specific food or supplement that can directly kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, maintaining a strong immune system supports your body's natural defense mechanisms. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to ensure adequate nutrient intake. Staying well-hydrated is also crucial, especially if you are experiencing side effects like diarrhea from strong antibiotics. Probiotics may help restore gut health after antibiotic use, but they should be taken at least two hours apart from the antibiotic dose to avoid interference.
To minimize the spread of resistant bacteria, practice rigorous hand hygiene with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food. Disinfect high-touch surfaces in the bathroom and kitchen daily. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, razors, or toothbrushes. If you have a known resistant infection like MRSA, keep wounds covered with clean, dry bandages until they heal, and wash any linens or clothing that touched the wound in hot water and dry them on high heat.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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