Sulfamethoxazole is an antibiotic commonly prescribed in combination with another antibiotic known as trimethoprim. This combination of antibiotics is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections and is particularly effective against infections of the urinary tract. Although this antibiotic combination can be used safely by most patients, some side effects are associated with its use.
Gastrointestinal
One of the main side effects associated with the use of sulfamethoxazole is a result of its effects on the gastrointestinal system. Sulfamethoxazole most commonly causes nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite, Drugs.com explains. This medication can also cause inflammation of the stomach and the pancreas, which can result in diarrhea and bleeding in the gastrointestinal system. Symptoms of a gastrointestinal bleed include the stools streaked with blood or black and tar-like in appearance. Patients may also notice blood in their vomit, which may be red or may look like coffee grounds.
Hematologic
Sulfamethoxazole can affect the cells in the blood, EMedTV reports. This can result in anemia, which causes patients to be fatigued and pale. Patients may also experience a decreased number of platelets, which can result in easy bruising or bleeding. A low white blood cell count, which is another side effect of sulfamethoxazole, can make patients more prone to developing infections.
Neurologic
Sulfamethoxazole can have a number of effects on the nervous system. Patients may develop a headache or a ringing in their ears while taking sulfamethoxazole, according to RxList. Problems with coordination and dizziness have also been reported, as has tingling, burning and numbness in various parts of the body due to inflammation of peripheral nerves. Patients may also become depressed or apathetic, feel anxious, develop hallucinations or experience convulsions.
Organ Damage
Sulfamethoxazole can damage the kidneys, resulting in difficulty urinating and flank pain. It can also cause the kidneys to not excrete enough potassium from the body, resulting in a condition known as hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia, EMedTV explains, is marked by a slowed heart rate, muscle weakness and burning, tickling or prickling sensations throughout the body. Sulfamethoxazole can also cause liver damage, which can result in abdominal pain, a tendency to bleed or bruise more easily and yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.
Allergic Reactions
Like many medications, sulfamethoxazole can trigger allergic reactions, which can result in a hives or rashes or swelling of the face, lips and tongue. Severe allergic reactions, termed anaphylaxis, can cause the airway to close up and can make swallowing difficult. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
In addition, sulfamethoxazole is known to cause a severe allergic reaction known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This condition causes large patches of skin on the body to develop a blistering rash. Ultimately the skin peels off, leading to the development of large sores which can cause life-threatening infections. Early symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include purple patches under the skin or the development of a bright red or peeling rash. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a medical emergency, so patients who develop any kind of rash while taking sulfamethoxazole should contact a medical professional immediately.
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