In spite of a growing awareness of antibiotic resistance in recent years, overuse still occurs for a number of reasons:
Doctors may prescribe antibiotics before receiving test results that identify the actual cause of infection.
People who want quick relief from symptoms, regardless of the cause of illness, may pressure doctors for antibiotic prescriptions.
People may take antibiotics purchased abroad or via the Internet for self-diagnosed illnesses.
People may take antibiotics that are leftovers from a previous prescription.