Key facts about Bactrim
What is Bactrim?
Bactrim is the brand name for sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim and is available as an oral tablet.
What dosages is Bactrim available in?
Bactrim is available as an oral tablet that contains 400 mg of sulfamethaxozole and 80 mg of trimethoprim or 800 mg of sulfamethaxozole and 160 mg of trimethoprim.
What is Bactrim used for?
Bactrim is a combination antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, ear infections, lower respiratory tract infections, travelers’ diarrhea, and diarrhea caused by Shigella (Shigellosis).
How does Bactrim work?
Bactrim is an antibiotic that contains two medications, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. They work together to stop bacteria from being able to make a chemical (folic acid) that’s needed for them to grow and survive.
How do I take Bactrim?
Bactrim is typically taken by mouth twice a day for 5 to 14 days, depending on the infection being treated. Your dose might be different if you have kidney problems.
Is it safe for me to take Bactrim?
Bactrim is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you are allergic to sulfonamides, have megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency, are less than 2 months of age, or have severe liver or kidney impairment.
Bactrim Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Bactrim include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Rash
- Hives
- Changes to blood sugar
- Skin sensitivity to sun or light
Bactrim Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Bactrim.
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Bactrim
The following medications may interact with Bactrim:
- Thiazides diurectics – An increased incidence of thrombocytopenia with purpura has been reported
- Warfarin – Prolonged prothrombin time
- Phenytoin – May block the metabolism and increase the effects of phenytoin.Bactrim may inhibit the hepatic metabolism of phenytoin (a CYP2C9 substrate)
- Methotrexate – May increase the effects of methotrexate
- Cyclosporine – May increase the risk of reversible nephrotoxicity in renal transplant recipients
- Digoxin – Increased digoxin blood levels can occur with concomitant Bactrim therapy
- Indomethacin – Increased sulfamethoxazole blood levels may occur in patients who are also receiving indomethacin
- TCAs – The efficacy of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) can decrease when coadministered with Bactrim
Who makes Bactrim?
Mutual Pharmaceutical Company
Is Bactrim safe in pregnancy?
Bactrim is not recommend to be used if you are pregnant as it may cause harm to your unborn baby. If you’re pregnant, make sure to tell your physician because they’ll most likely prescribe a different antibiotic for you.
