Bacterial pneumonia is commonly treated with antibiotics such as amoxicillin, doxycycline, or azithromycin for community-acquired cases, while more severe or hospital-acquired infections may require stronger drugs like levofloxacin or ceftriaxone. Completing the entire prescribed course is critically important, even if you start feeling better after a few days. Stopping early can allow the hardiest bacteria to survive and multiply, leading to a relapse of the infection that is often more severe and difficult to treat. Furthermore, this practice contributes to the major global health threat of antibiotic resistance, making these essential drugs less effective for everyone. The full course is necessary to ensure the infection is completely eradicated from your system.