The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a new alert urging anyone with unused antibiotics in their medicine cupboard to "hand them in now." Many people do not finish all the pills in their boxes once they start to feel better, despite NHS advice to complete the course.
Don't save leftover pills
People who experience similar symptoms again might be tempted to try the leftover pills, but the UKHSA has asked people not to do this and to return any remaining antibiotics to pharmacies. In a new post on X, 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."
Antibiotics are essential for treating serious bacterial infections such as meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis, but they are frequently used for illnesses like coughs, earache and sore throats that can get better on their own.
Rising resistance threat
Public Health England, the UKHSA's predecessor, previously reported that at least 5,000 deaths are caused every year in England because antibiotics no longer work for some infections. This figure is set to rise, with experts predicting that in just over 30 years antibiotic resistance will kill more people than cancer and diabetes combined.
Antibiotic-resistant infections are on the rise. Data published in autumn 2025 shows there are nearly 400 new cases reported every week in England. A campaign has been continuing to encourage people not to take antibiotics unnecessarily.
Safe disposal advice
Regarding unused pills, the UKHSA said: "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."
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."
People are also advised to make sure they get vaccinations wherever they are eligible. The UKHSA said: "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."
