Indications 

Bactrim is a combination antibiotic, containing sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, which target different types of bacterial infections. 

Used for the treatment of a variety of bacterial infections, including ear infections, urinary tract infections, bronchitis, traveler’s diarrhea, shigellosis, and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia. 

To ensure the continued efficacy of Bactrim and to minimize the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, it should be used exclusively for the treatment of infections that have been confirmed or are strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.  

Uses and Dosage 

Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and frequency indicated by your physician. Ensure that you are fully informed of the proper use of Bactrim by reading all related medication guides and instruction sheets. 

Maintain adequate hydration to minimize the risk of developing kidney stones. Report any instances of diarrhea, especially if watery or bloody, to your healthcare provider. 

Continue using Bactrim until the end of the prescribed course, even if your symptoms improve rapidly. Interrupting treatment may increase the risk of drug resistance. Note that Bactrim is not effective against viral infections such as the flu or the common cold. 

Regular monitoring through blood and urine tests may be necessary, and treatment may be adjusted based on test results. Store Bactrim in a cool and dry place, away from sources of moisture, heat, and light. Do not store it in the refrigerator. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

• Hives 
• Cough 
• Chest pain 
• Shortness of breath 
• Swelling in face or throat 
• Severe skin reaction
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Burning eyes
  • Skin pain
  • Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling 

Severe Side Effects

• Skin rash 
• Fever 
• Swollen glands 
• Joint pain 
• Muscle aches 
• Severe weakness 
• Pale skin 
• Unusual bruising 
• Yellowing of skin or eyes 

Call Doctor Immediately for: 

• Severe stomach pain 
• Diarrhea (watery or bloody, even after months of last dose) 
• Any skin rash, no matter how mild 
• Yellowing of skin or eyes 
• Seizure 
• New or unusual joint pain 
• Increased or decreased urination 
• Swelling, bruising, or irritation around IV needle 
• Increased thirst, dry mouth, fruity breath odor 
• New or worsening cough, fever, trouble breathing 
• High blood potassium:
  • Nausea
  • Weakness
  • Tingly feeling
  • Chest pain
  • Irregular heartbeats
  • Loss of movement 
• Low blood sodium:
  • Headache
  • Confusion
  • Problems with thinking or memory
  • Weakness
  • Feeling unsteady 
• Low blood cell counts:
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Mouth sores
  • Skin sores
  • Easy bruising
  • Unusual bleeding
  • Pale skin
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Feeling light-headed or short of breath 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• Skin rash 

Caution 

Important Monitoring Recommendations: 

• Your doctor should regularly check your or your child’s progress to ensure the proper functioning of the medicine. 
• Blood and urine tests may be necessary to monitor for potential side effects. 

Pregnancy: 

• Use of this medicine during pregnancy may harm your unborn baby. 
• Use effective birth control measures to prevent pregnancy. 
• If pregnancy occurs while taking this medicine, inform your doctor immediately. 

Skin Reactions: 

• Serious skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, DRESS, AGEP, and AFND, may occur. 
• Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as skin rash, blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin, chills, cough, diarrhea, itching, joint or muscle pain, red eyes, red skin lesions, sore throat, sores, ulcers, white spots in the mouth, black or tarry stools, chest pain, or painful urination. 

Liver Issues: 

• Contact your doctor immediately if you have symptoms of a serious liver problem, such as dark urine, clay-colored stools, stomach pain, or yellow eyes or skin. 

Platelet Count: 

• High doses or long-term use of this medicine may lower platelet counts and increase the risk of bleeding and infection. 
• Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as black or tarry stools, bleeding gums, blood in urine or stools, pinpoint red spots on the skin, or unusual bleeding or bruising. 

Diarrhea: 

• This medicine may cause diarrhea, including severe cases. 
• Do not treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor. 
• Contact your doctor if you or your child experience symptoms of a serious intestinal infection, such as stomach cramps, bloating, watery and severe diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, or unusual tiredness or weakness. 
• Contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as anxiety, changes in behavior, blurred vision, cold sweats, confusion, cool pale skin, difficulty concentrating, drowsiness, excessive hunger, headache, nausea, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, shakiness, or unusual tiredness or weakness.