Brand
name: Bactrim ---
BACTRIM (Co-trimoxazole, Septra, Cotrim)
Pronounced: BAC-trim
Generic ingredients: Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole
Other brand names: Cotrim, Septra
Why is Bactrim prescribed?
Bactrim, an antibacterial combination drug, is prescribed for the
treatment of certain urinary tract infections, severe middle ear infections
in children, long-lasting or frequently recurring bronchitis in adults
that has increased in seriousness, inflammation of the intestine due
to a severe bacterial infection, and travelers' diarrhea in adults.
Bactrim is also prescribed for the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii
pneumonia, and for prevention of this type of pneumonia in people with
weakened immune systems.
Most important fact about Bactrim
Sulfamethoxazole, an ingredient in Bactrim, is one of a group of drugs
called sulfonamides, which prevent the growth of bacteria in the body.
Rare but sometimes fatal reactions have occurred with use of sulfonamides.
These reactions include Stevens-Johnson syndrome (severe eruptions
around the mouth, anus, or eyes), progressive disintegration of the
outer layer of the skin, sudden and severe liver damage, a severe blood
disorder (agranulocytosis), and a lack of red and white blood cells
because of a bone marrow disorder.
Notify your doctor at the first sign of an adverse reaction such as
skin rash, sore throat, fever, joint pain, cough, shortness of breath,
abnormal skin paleness, reddish or purplish skin spots, or yellowing
of the skin or whites of the eyes.
Frequent blood counts by a doctor are recommended for patients taking
sulfonamide drugs.
How should you take Bactrim?
It is important that you drink plenty of fluids while taking this
medication in order to prevent sediment in the urine and the formation
of stones.
Bactrim works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. Take
Bactrim exactly as prescribed; try not to miss any doses. It is best
to take doses at evenly spaced times day and night.
If you are taking Bactrim suspension, ask your pharmacist for a specially
marked measuring spoon that delivers accurate doses.
If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time
for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage instructions...
Store tablets and suspension at room temperature and protect from
light. Keep tablets in a dry place. Protect the suspension from freezing.
Bactrim side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Bactrim.
* Side effects may include:
Hives, lack or loss of appetite, nausea, skin rash, vomiting
Why should Bactrim not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to trimethoprim,
sulfamethoxazole, or other sulfa drugs, you should not take Bactrim.
Make sure that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you
have experienced.
Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this
medication if you have been diagnosed as having megaloblastic anemia,
which is a blood disorder due to a deficiency of folic acid.
This drug should not be given to infants less than 2 months of age.
Bactrim is not recommended for preventative or prolonged use in middle
ear infections and should not be used in the treatment of streptococcal
pharyngitis (strep throat) or certain other strep infections.
You should not take Bactrim if you are pregnant or nursing a baby.
Special warnings about Bactrim
Make sure your doctor knows if you have impaired kidney or liver function,
have a folic acid deficiency, are a chronic alcoholic, are taking anticonvulsants,
have been diagnosed as having malabsorption syndrome (abnormal intestinal
absorption), are in a state of poor nutrition, or have severe allergies
or bronchial asthma. Bactrim should be used cautiously under these
conditions.
If you develop severe diarrhea, call your doctor. This drug can cause
a serious intestinal inflammation.
If you have AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and are taking
Bactrim to treat or prevent Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, you will
experience more side effects than will someone without AIDS.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Bactrim
If Bactrim is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Bactrim with the following:
Amantadine (Symmetrel)
Blood thinners such as Coumadin
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
Oral diabetes medications such as Micronase and Glucotrol
Pyrimethamine (Daraprim)
Seizure medications such as Dilantin
Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil, Norpramin, Sinequan, and
Tofranil
Water pills (diuretics) such as HydroDIURIL
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Bactrim should not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant
or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Bactrim
does appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. It should
not be taken while breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for Bactrim
ADULTS
Overdosage
If you suspect an overdose of Bactrim, seek emergency medical attention
immediately.
* Symptoms of an overdose of Bactrim include:
Blood or sediment in the urine, colic, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, fever,
headache, lack or loss of appetite, mental depression, nausea, unconsciousness,
vomiting, yellowed eyes and skin
