Description
Bactrim DS combines two active ingredients- sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim to treat and prevent infections caused by bacteria. The antibacterial combination product is FDA approved for the treatment of Acute infective exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, shigellosis, pneumonia, travellers’ diarrhoea, toxoplasmosis, and urinary tract infections. It is also effective in treating otitis media (infection of the ear in paediatrics. Each tablet contains 800 mg of sulfamethoxazole and 160 mg of trimethoprim that maintains the effectiveness of the medication. The antibacterial drug is available in the form of oral tablets for rapid absorption into the system. The medicine is not suitable for kids less than two months of age. Note- Bactrim DS will not work to treat viral infections such as flu; misuse may increase the risk of side effects and decrease the effectiveness of the drug.
Product Description
Bactrim DS may reduce the effectiveness of bacterial vaccines, so do not have vaccinations while using the antibacterial drug unless advised by your doctor.
The use of Bactrim DS is contraindicated in the following conditions:
- Renal insufficiency
- Pregnancy
- Hepatic failure
- Haematological disorders
- Liver parenchymal damage
- Neonate less than six weeks of age
Administration of this antibiotic combination should not occur with any of the following medications:
- Sufonylureas
- Prilocaine
- Phenytoin
- Antifolates
- Lamivudine. Zidovudine. And zalcitabine
- Clozapine
- Procainamide or amantadine
- Dapsone
- Methenamine
- Spironolactone
- Diuretics
- Digoxin
Concomitant use of Bactrim DS with any of these drugs could cause potential interactions. Make sure you follow other guidelines as well provided by your doctor.
Side Effects
The primary side effects of Bactrim DS include rash, folate deficiency, as well as photosensitivity. Other side effects associated with the use of Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole are tinnitus, insomnia, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite, painful or swollen tongue.
A patient with a history of unknown allergy to sulpha drugs may experience severe allergic symptoms such as itchy eyes, hives, abdominal pain, swelling of the mouth or throat.
How to Use
Your doctor may advice you take oral sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim without regards to meal. It is best to take the oral medication with at least eight ounces of water. Oral dosage in adults and children may vary. For adults, usually a single tablet of Bactrim DS every twelve hours for 10 to 14 days works to reduce the symptoms. Children two months and older must have dosages as per their weights. Also, the dose of this antibiotic drug depends on what condition being treated for as well as the severity of the condition.