The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an urgent warning to anyone with leftover antibiotics in their medicine cupboard: hand them in to a pharmacy and do not throw them in the bin. The alert follows concerns that many people fail to complete their full course of tablets once they start feeling better, despite NHS advice to finish the course.
Why leftover antibiotics are a problem
When similar symptoms resurface, many people are tempted to reach for those remaining pills. However, the UKHSA has urged people against this, requesting that any leftover medication be returned to their local pharmacy for safe disposal.
In a post on X this week, the UKHSA said: "Thinking about taking leftover antibiotics? Kick that box back to the pharmacy. Using antibiotics the right way helps keep them working for you and for future generations."
Rising resistance and deaths
Antibiotics are vital in treating serious bacterial infections such as meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis, yet they are frequently used for illnesses like coughs, earache and sore throats that would ordinarily clear up on their own.
Public Health England, the UKHSA's predecessor, previously reported that at least 5,000 deaths occur annually in England as a direct result of antibiotics becoming ineffective against certain infections. This figure is expected to climb significantly, with experts warning that in just over 30 years, antibiotic resistance could claim more lives than cancer and diabetes combined.
What the UKHSA advises
Antibiotic-resistant infections are increasing. Figures released in autumn 2025 reveal there are nearly 400 fresh cases reported each week in England. A campaign has been ongoing to urge people against taking antibiotics unnecessarily.
Regarding unused tablets, the UKHSA has stated: "If you have antibiotics that are no longer needed, take them back to a pharmacy where they can be disposed of safely. Throwing antibiotics in the bin could lead to higher risks of resistant bacteria developing in the environment. Don't save them for later – if you're unwell it's vital to speak to a doctor, nurse or pharmacist first, so that you get the right antibiotic and the right dose for your current infection."
On whether people should take antibiotics, the UKHSA added: "Most colds, coughs and sore throats are caused by viruses, which means they can't be treated by antibiotics. Taking antibiotics when you don't need them gives bacteria more chances to develop resistance. Always talk to a doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking antibiotics – and take as directed by your doctor, nurse or pharmacist, even if you feel better. If the advice is that you don't need antibiotics, ask what else can help you feel better – often rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relief are all you need."
Vaccines linked to resistance
Individuals are also urged to ensure they receive vaccinations wherever they're eligible. The UKHSA stated: "You might not connect vaccinations with antibiotic resistance, but they're closely linked. Vaccines prevent infections from happening in the first place, which means fewer people need antibiotics. In fact, vaccination remains one of the most successful public health measures for reducing the need for antibiotics – so please do make sure you and your loved ones are up-to-date with the vaccines they are eligible for."
