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Antimicrobial (Drug) Resistance
 Understanding Antimicrobial (Drug) Resistance
  Quick Facts
  Definition of Terms
  History
  Causes
  Diagnosis
  Treatment
  Prevention
  A Growing Health Issue
 Research
 Examples of Antimicrobial Resistance


Antimicrobial (Drug) Resistance

Prevention

To prevent antimicrobial resistance, you and your healthcare provider should discuss the appropriate medication for your illness and avoid overusing or misusing medicines. Strictly follow prescription medication directions and never share or take medicine that was prescribed for someone else. Communicate effectively with your healthcare provider, so that he or she has a clear understanding of your symptoms and can determine whether an antimicrobial drug, such as an antibiotic, is appropriate. Do not save your antibiotic for the next time you get sick; take all of the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If the healthcare provider has prescribed more than the required dose, discard leftover medications once you have completed the prescribed course of treatment. Do not share your medication with another person.

Healthy lifestyle habits always go far in preventing illness, including proper diet, exercise, sleeping patterns, and good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing.


Volunteer for Clinical Studies

Volunteer for NIAID-funded clinical studies related to antimicrobial (drug) resistance on ClinicalTrials.gov.

Related Links

View a list of links for more information about antimicrobial (drug) resistance.

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Volunteer for Clinical Studies

Volunteer for NIAID-funded clinical studies related to antimicrobial (drug) resistance on ClinicalTrials.gov.

Related Links

View a list of links for more information about antimicrobial (drug) resistance.