What is a potential risk associated with prolonged use of antibiotics?

Prolonged use of antibiotics is associated with the development of bacterial resistance, which is a significant public health concern. When antibiotics are used over an extended period, they can eliminate susceptible bacteria, leaving behind those that are resistant to the medication. This selective pressure allows resistant strains to thrive and proliferate, ultimately making infections harder to treat in the future.

For example, common bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus have developed resistance to multiple antibiotic classes due to improper or excessive use of these medications. The emergence of resistant infections can lead to longer hospital stays, the need for more expensive drugs, and increased mortality rates.

Contrary to the suggestion that prolonged antibiotic use could improve immunity or lead to increased energy levels, excessive antibiotic use can actually disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the body, potentially leading to opportunistic infections and a weakened immune response. Similarly, antibiotics are not typically associated with lowering blood pressure, as their primary function is to combat bacterial infections, not to influence cardiovascular dynamics.