Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole)
Bactrim is a type of drug that is formed with a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. Both of them are antibiotics that are used for treating different bacterial infections. They are used for treating urinary tract and ear infections, traveler’s diarrhoea, pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, shigellosis, and bronchitis. There are other purposes of this drug which may not be listed here.
Dosage
The dosage of Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim) can vary depending on the specific infection being treated, the severity of the condition, and individual factors such as age, weight, and kidney function. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the prescribing information on the medication label. The following are general dosage guidelines for adults:
Urinary Tract Infections:
- Uncomplicated: One Bactrim DS tablet (containing 800 mg sulfamethoxazole and 160 mg trimethoprim) or two regular-strength Bactrim tablets (containing 400 mg sulfamethoxazole and 80 mg trimethoprim) every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days.
Respiratory Tract Infections:
- Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis: One Bactrim DS tablet or two regular-strength Bactrim tablets every 12 hours for 14 days.
- Other respiratory infections: The dosage may vary based on the specific condition. Your healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
Skin and Soft Tissue Infections:
- The dosage may vary depending on the severity of the infection. Your healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment.
Composition
The drug Bactrim is a combination drug of two antibiotics called trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. It is an antibacterial synthetic product that is available in DS (double strength) tablets. The inactive ingredients present in Bactrim are:
- Magnesium stearate
- Sodium starch glycolate
- Pregelatinized starch
- Sodium benzoate 15%
- Docusate sodium 85%
Uses
This medication is mainly used for the treatment of a large variety of infections caused by bacteria (like urine, middle ear, intestinal, and respiratory infections). It is also used for the prevention and treatment of a type of pneumonia (pneumocystis-type).
Bactrim shouldn’t be prescribed to children under 2 months of age as the might cause some serious effects on their health. This medication works only for certain infections. They do not cure viral infections (like flue and common cold). Misuse and unnecessary usage of this drug can reduce its effectiveness.
Side-effects
There are many side-effects associated with the use of Bactrim that may require medical attention. Some of these side-effects are mentioned below:
- Black and tarry stools
- Stomach and abdominal pain
- Loosening, blistering, or peeling of the skin
- Chest pain
- Changes in the colour of the skin
- Chills
- Hoarseness or cough
- Diarrhoea
- Dark urine
- Dizziness
- Weakness or tiredness
- Fever along with chills
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Itching
- Loss of appetite
- Light-coloured stools
- Nausea
- Side or lower back pain
- Pale skin
- swelling, in the leg
- Difficult and painful urination
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Wheezing
- Blood in vomit
- bleeding
- Unpleasant breath odour
- Tightness in the chest
- Painful and swollen glands
- Breathlessness
- Bleeding gums
- Bloating
- Chest pain
- Cloudy urine
- Constipation
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Convulsions
- Itching, blisters, or hives
- blindness
- Cracks in the skin
- Difficulty while swallowing
- Hair loss
- Indigestion
- Increase in thirst
- Irregular heartbeat
- Nosebleeds
- Unable to urinate
- Hearing loss
- Stiff back or neck
- Weight gain
Contraindications
If the patient has any of the following conditions, he/she should not be allowed to use this medication:
- Allergic reaction to sulfa (sulfonamide antibiotics) trimethoprim
- Low blood sugar
- Severe liver disease
- Kidney problems
- Porphyria
- G6PD Deficiency
- Decreased blood platelets
Bactrim and pregnancy
This drug is not recommended to pregnant women as it has the potential of embryo/fetal developmental toxicity. It even inhibits folate metabolism. Therefore, care must be taken while prescribing Bactrim to a pregnant woman.
Some frequently asked questions about Sulfamethoxazole
What is Sulfamethoxazole?
Sulfamethoxazole is a combination antibiotic medication that contains sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It is used to treat various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and skin and soft tissue infections.
How does Sulfamethoxazole work?
Sulfamethoxazole works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Sulfamethoxazole, a sulfonamide antibiotic, interferes with the production of folic acid in bacteria, while trimethoprim inhibits a specific enzyme involved in the folic acid synthesis pathway. Together, they synergistically target different steps of bacterial folic acid production, effectively killing the bacteria causing the infection.
What types of infections are treated with Sulfamethoxazole?
Sulfamethoxazole is commonly used to treat urinary tract infections, such as bladder infections. It is also effective against respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia. Additionally, Sulfamethoxazole can be used to treat skin and soft tissue infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
What is the usual dosage of Sulfamethoxazole?
The dosage of Sulfamethoxazole can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. The usual adult dosage for most infections is one Sulfamethoxazole DS tablet or two regular-strength Sulfamethoxazole tablets taken every 12 hours.
What are the common side effects of Sulfamethoxazole?
Common side effects of Sulfamethoxazole may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and skin rash. In rare cases, more severe side effects such as allergic reactions or blood disorders may occur. If you experience any concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.
Can Sulfamethoxazole interact with other medications?
Sulfamethoxazole may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diuretics, and medications that affect kidney function. It is important to inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Can anyone take Sulfamethoxazole?
Sulfamethoxazole may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to inform your healthcare professional about your complete medical history, including any allergies, kidney or liver problems, or blood disorders. They will determine if Sulfamethoxazole is appropriate for you and adjust the dosage if needed.
Remember, the information provided here is for general knowledge and should not replace medical advice. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance regarding your specific situation and the use of Sulfamethoxazole.
