Antibiotics » SULFAMETHOXAZOLE (sul-fa-meth-OX-a-zole) and TRIMETHOPRIM (trye-METH-oh-prim)

SULFAMETHOXAZOLE; TRIMETHOPRIM or SMX-TMP is a combination of two antibiotics.

Take SMX-TMP by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take with a full glass of water. Drinking extra water will help to prevent some unwanted effects of sulfonamides.
Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim combination should not be given to infants less than 2 months of age unless directed by the child's doctor.

More common side effects may include:
Hives, lack or loss of appetite, nausea, skin rash, vomiting. 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.

Elderly patients, and AIDS patients being treated for Pneumocystis carinii, are more likely to get serious side effects from SMX-TMP.

It is 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

If you suspect an overdose of Bactrim, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

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.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. If you are taking two doses a day and have to take a missed dose, make sure there is at least 5 to 6 hours between doses.
If you are taking one dose a day and have to take a missed dose, make sure there is at least 10 to 12 hours between doses.

It is used to treat infections of the urinary tract, middle ear, and respiratory tract (bronchitis).

This drug is also used for traveler's diarrhea, and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in AIDS or cancer patients. Generic tablets are available

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve in 2 to 3 days.
Drink several glasses of water a day. This will help to reduce possible kidney problems.