What is Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) used for?

Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) is a combination of two antibiotics prescribed to treat a large variety of bacterial infections. These two medications prevent the reproduction of different types of bacteria to prevent their reproduction allowing the immune system to eliminate the infection. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections of the lungs, airways, skin, soft tissues, middle ear, or urinary tract. Your doctor may also prescribe the use of this medication for the treatment of other unlisted conditions.

How should I use Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole)?

Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) should be used according to the instructions provided by your doctor to get the most effective results from treatment. The normal dosage is one tablet administered once or twice each day for a medication cycle lasting up to two weeks, but your particular directions will be determined by your age, weight, health condition, the condition being treated, and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed with a full glass of water and may be taken with or without food. A meal or snack may be suggested before use if you get an upset stomach. Never stop using the medicine, even if your symptoms seem to have disappeared, as the infection may not be gone and can return stronger or more resistant to treatment. Ask your pharmacist or doctor any questions you have about the medicine to ensure the correct usage.

What are the side effects of Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole)?

Some patients using Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) have reported experiencing side effects including:

• Headaches
• Upset stomach, diarrhoea, or constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sore or swollen tongue
• Mild skin rash or irritation

Serious side effects that may require emergency medical attention are fever, flu symptoms, severe headaches, muscle fatigue, sensitive skin, easier bruising, or high levels of potassium. Inform your doctor as soon as any unusual or worrying symptoms present themselves to make sure the necessary adjustments are made to your dosage or application frequency to prevent further health problems from occurring.

Please Note

Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) should not be used by patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole, who have had a bad reaction to similar treatments in the past, or who have reduced or elevated blood cell counts. Also inform your doctor if you have a folic acid deficiency, porphyrias, reduced kidney function, or decreased liver function as these conditions may cause unexpected health problems requiring special adjustments to your regimen.

Strictly use Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.