1. Bactrim is a Sulfa Drug
Bactrim is grouped as a sulfa drug and goes by many brand names. Some of the other names are Bethaprim, Cotrim, Septra, Sulfatrim and Uroplus. The generic name for Bactrim is Trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole since the ingredients are two antibiotics, trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. Bactrim is frequently prescribed for urinary tract infections and may be given in low doses as a prophylactic measure on a daily basis for those who have repeated cystitis. It is also used for other bacterial infections, such as bronchitis and ear infections.
2. Important Information for Your Doctor
Don't take Bactrim if you're pregnant without first telling your doctor. Bactrim tends to interact with the folic acid that is necessary to the development of the fetus. If you are nursing, also let your doctor know, since drugs transfer to the breast milk. Anyone who has liver disease, porphyria, G6PD deficiency, blood disorders including anemia, elevated levels of potassium or kidney disease should let their doctor know before taking Bactrim.
3. Bactrim Side Effects
The most common side effect is an allergic rash but you may experience other side effects as well. In response to Bactrim, you may experience anemia, difficulty breathing, irregular heart beat or chest pain, bluish lips and fingernails, fever, muscle aches, a sore throat, blistering of the skin, low back ache, yellowing eyes or painful urination. If you notice any of those listed, immediately call your physician or prescriber.
4. Possible Drug Interactions Bactrim
Be sure to tell your physician or prescriber about any drugs or herbal remedies that you also take. Bactrim may have a negative interaction with a number of drugs, including amiloride, cyclosporine, digoxin, diabetes medication, methenamine, procainamide, various potassium salts and medicine for blood pressure or heart failure. It also can interact with triamterene, trimetrexate, sulfinpyrazone, warfarin and valproic acid.
5. So You Forgot a Pill
If you missed a dose of Bactrim, take the missed dose immediately, unless you are close to your next dose. If that is the case, never double dose the pill, but take the next one and continue the dosage as you normally would. Always drink plenty of water when you take Bactrim. Take the dosage with a full glass of water, and take a few extra glasses throughout the day. Read the instruction guide your physician provides, and if the medication upsets your stomach, eat prior to taking it.
