Bactrim (Trimethoprim)

What is Bactrim?

Bactrim contains a combination of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim.

Bactrim is used to treat ear infections, urinary tract infections, bronchitis, traveler’s diarrhea, shigellosis, and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia.

Bactrim may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important Information

You should not use Bactrim if you have severe liver disease, uncontrolled kidney disease, anemia caused by folic acid deficiency, if you are taking dofetilide, or if you have had low blood platelet counts caused by trimethoprim or sulfa drugs.

Do not take sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Before Taking This Medicine

You should not use Bactrim if you are allergic to sulfamethoxazole or trimethoprim, or if you have:

• Do not use if you are pregnant.
• Do not breastfeed while using this medicine.
• This medicine should not be given to children younger than 2 months old.

How to Take Bactrim

• Take Bactrim exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent kidney stones while using this medicine.
• Doses of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are based on the weight of children.
• Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if symptoms improve quickly.
• You may need frequent medical tests.
• This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.
• Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

If You Miss a Dose

Use the medicine as soon as you remember, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.

If You Overdose

Overdose symptoms may include:

• Loss of appetite,
• Vomiting,
• Fever,
• Blood in urine,
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes,
• Confusion or unconsciousness.

What to Avoid While Using Bactrim

Antibiotics can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection.

Bactrim can make you more sensitive to sunlight.

Bactrim Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Bactrim (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blisters and peeling).

What Other Drugs Affect Bactrim?

You may need frequent check-ups or medical tests if you are also using medications for depression, diabetes, seizures, or HIV.

Many drugs can interact with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, and some should not be used together.

This list is not complete and other drugs may also interact with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim.