Ask the Doc Published April 13, 2007 43rd Medical Group POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Antibiotics: A few tips to help protect you, your family and friends: Do - Talk with your healthcare provider about antibiotic resistance - Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed by our provider - Finish all prescribed medications even if you are feeling better, to avoid possible re-infection - Remember to throw away any leftover medication once you have completed your prescription - Remember good hygiene practices Do not - Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection like a cold or the flu - Do not demand antibiotics when your provider says they are not needed - Do not skip doses when prescribed an antibiotic - Do not save antibiotics for the next time you get sick - Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else