SMZ-TMP (sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim) is a prescription antibacterial medication used to eradicate certain types of bacterial infections from the body. Common brand names include Bactrim and Septra. This medication is administered orally (tablet or oral suspension) or intravenously (IV) and should be taken with a full glass of water. Discuss the side effects of SMZ-TMP with your doctor before you begin treatment with this medication.
Stomach Upset
One of the most common side effects of SMZ-TMP is stomach upset. While taking this medication, you can begin to feel nauseous or may vomit. Certain patients also develop frequent bowel movements that produce watery or loose stools (diarrhea). If you experience diarrhea while taking SMZ-TMP, you may also develop abdominal pain, cramping or bloating. These stomach-related side effects can cause a decrease in appetite, which may affect the amount of food that you normally consume. You can limit the development of these side effects by eating a small snack or meal before dosing and increasing your fluid intake while receiving treatment with SMZ-TMP.
Blood Problems
Treatment with SMZ-TMP can increase your risk of experiencing blood problems. You may notice that your gums begin to bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth or that skin injuries take longer than usual to heal, warns Drugs, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. Talk with your doctor if you develop any unusual bleeding problems while taking this medication.
Skin Reactions
Skin can be more sensitive to sunlight while taking SMZ-TMP. Even brief exposure to sunlight can lead to the appearance of a red, itchy rash across your skin. Certain patients can also be at risk of sustaining severe sunburn, which can lead to the development of painful, inflamed patches of skin. During treatment with this medication, avoid spending long periods of time outdoors and be sure to protect your skin if you choose to venture outside.
Flu-like Symptoms
During treatment with SMZ-TMP, you can develop mild to moderate flu-like symptoms as side effects of this medication, warns PDR Health, a website established by the publishers of the Physicians' Desk Reference. Flu-like symptoms can include fever, body aches, chills, cough, nasal congestion or sore throat. Talk with your doctor if you experience any of these side effects of SMZ-TMP, as the emergence of such symptoms can be indicative of alternate medical problems.
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