Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim
Uses of Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim
Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim is primarily used to manage various types of bacterial infections and belongs to the group of combination antibiotic medicines.
Secondary uses of this medication include managing urinary tract infections, acute otitis media in children (bacterial infection of the middle ear), bronchitis and other respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal infections like traveller's diarrhoea (digestive tract disorder causing loose stools and stomach cramps) and shigellosis (intestinal infection), and pneumonia.
Side effects of Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim
Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Diarrhoea
Skin rashes and allergic reactions
Headache
How Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim works
Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim is categorized as a combination antibiotic.
Sulfamethoxazole is a sulfonamide antibiotic. It works by competing with para-aminobenzoic acid to inhibit the bacterial synthesis of dihydrofolic acid, an essential component for bacteria to survive and multiply.
Trimethoprim is a synthetic antibacterial agent. It prevents the production of tetrahydrofolic acid from dihydrofolic acid by inhibiting an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim can be taken via oral (tablet and suspension) and intravenous (injection) routes.
Age and Dose Restrictions
This medicine is intended for both adults and children.
Contraindications
This medication should not be administered to patients with known allergies to Sulfamethoxazole or Trimethoprim. It is contraindicated in patients with documented megaloblastic anaemia due to folate deficiency, severe kidney insufficiency or marked liver damage.
Other Medications to Avoid
This combination can interact with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin), anti-diabetic medicines (e.g., glimepiride, glipizide), anti-seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin, primidone), and blood pressure medication (e.g., benazepril, enalapril).
Overdose and Missed Dose
In case of an overdose of Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, mental/mood changes, and uncommon tiredness.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is near the time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Drinking a full glass of water with each dose and maintaining adequate fluid intake can help prevent kidney stones.
Taking the medication with food or milk can minimise the stomach upset associated with this medicine.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim may cause dizziness. If this occurs, do not drive or operate machinery until you feel well enough to do so safely.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
It is advised to avoid using this medicine during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester and while breastfeeding. Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication during these periods.
Caution in Other Conditions
Caution is advised when using Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim in patients with folate deficiency, severe allergies or bronchial asthma, G6PD deficiency, liver or kidney impairment, blood dyscrasias, porphyria, and thyroid dysfunction.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Regular hand hygiene practices can reduce the risk of bacterial infections.
Frequently asked questions
In how much time Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim Starts Working?
Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim typically starts working within a couple of days after you start taking it. However, it is vital to continue taking it for the full duration prescribed by your doctor to ensure complete recovery.
Will Drinking Alcohol Affect the Effectiveness of Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim?
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol when taking antibiotics, as it can increase side effects and may interfere with the effectiveness of the medicine.
Are There Any Alternatives to Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim?
There are other antibiotics available that can treat the same conditions as Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim. However, it is essential to consult your doctor who can advise on the best alternative based on your specific needs and medical history.
Is Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim Safe for Long-term Use?
The safety and efficacy of long-term use of Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim is determined by the nature of the bacterial infection and the patient's response to treatment. Continuous use for extended periods should be under the supervision of a doctor.
Can I take Paracetamol With Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim?
Paracetamol does not typically interact with Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim. However, you should always inform your doctor about all the medications you're currently taking to avoid any potential medicine interactions.
Does Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim Cause Mood Changes?
Mood changes are not a common side effect of Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim. However, if you experience any unusual emotional or psychological changes while taking this medicine, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
Can Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim Cause Weight Gain?
There is no direct evidence suggesting that Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim can cause weight gain. However, different people respond differently to medications, and if you observe unusual weight changes, consult your doctor.
Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim in other salts
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