Why You Should Never Skip Your Medicines
Introduction
In Pakistan, many people stop taking their medicines once they start feeling better. This is very common, especially with antibiotics, blood pressure medicines, or diabetes tablets. But skipping or stopping your medicines early can be dangerous. In this blog, we will explain why it is important to always complete your prescribed course and how it helps in proper recovery.
1. What Happens When You Skip Medicines?
When a doctor gives you medicine, it is for a reason. Every dose works step-by-step to fight the illness, reduce symptoms, and make your body strong again.
If you stop early:
- The illness may not go away completely
- Your symptoms can return
- The infection or problem can become worse
- In some cases, you may become resistant to the medicine
Example: If you have a throat infection and stop taking antibiotics after 2 days, the infection may seem better for now, but it can come back in a stronger form. Next time, the same medicine might not work.
2. Why Doctors Give a Fixed Time for Medicines
Doctors do not guess how long you should take the medicine. They calculate it based on:
- The type of illness
- The strength of the medicine
- Your age and weight
- Your body condition and health history
If a doctor says “Take this medicine for 5 days,” it means your body needs 5 full days of treatment to fully recover.
Even if you feel better after 2 or 3 days, your body may still have some infection or imbalance inside. You cannot see it, but it is still there. That is why full treatment is very important.
3. Antibiotics – Never Stop Early
One of the most misused medicines in Pakistan is antibiotics. Many people buy them without a prescription or stop them early.
Here’s what can go wrong:
- Bacteria becomes stronger and smarter
- Next time the infection is harder to treat
- You may need a stronger and more expensive medicine
- Antibiotic resistance can happen, which is dangerous for the whole community
Important: Never buy or stop antibiotics without asking your doctor or pharmacist.
4. Long-Term Medicines – Like for BP and Sugar
Many people with high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, or cholesterol issues take long-term or lifetime medicines. Some of them stop taking medicines when they feel fine. This is very risky.
These illnesses do not always show symptoms. You may feel okay but inside your body, the problem continues. Stopping medicine can lead to:
- Heart problems
- Kidney damage
- Stroke or coma
- Weak eyesight or nerve issues
Always follow your doctor’s advice. If you ever feel like changing your dose or stopping your medicine, ask your doctor first.
5. What to Do If You Miss a Dose
Sometimes, we forget to take a dose. It’s okay. It happens. Here’s what you can do:
- If you remember within a few hours, take it immediately
- If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed one – don’t take two at the same time
- Do not panic – but try to take your medicines on time daily
Tip: You can set reminders on your phone or ask a family member to help remind you.
6. Why Taking Medicines the Right Way Matters
Some medicines must be taken:
- Before meals
- After meals
- With water only
- At night or morning
These instructions help the medicine work better. If you take it the wrong way, it may not work properly or may cause side effects. Always read the label or ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.
7. Don’t Share Medicines with Others
Another common habit in Pakistan is sharing medicines. Your friend had the same cough? You give them your syrup. This is not safe.
Different people have different health needs. What works for you may harm someone else. Always tell your friend or family to visit a doctor or pharmacy for advice instead of sharing your medicines.
Conclusion
Medicines are not magic. They work only when taken the right way and for the right amount of time. Skipping medicines or stopping early may feel okay for now, but it can create bigger problems in the future.
At The Fine Store, we are always here to guide you. Whether it’s your first time taking a medicine or you have questions about your daily dose, feel free to ask us. Your health is our priority.