Co-trimoxazole, as indicated by the National Library of Medicine (NLM), is a combination medication made up of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. Co-trimoxazole comes in a tablet, liquid and injection formula. The NLM indicates that it is used to eliminate bacteria that causes infections including urinary tract infections, lung infections, ear infections and intestinal infections. It may also be used to treat "travelers' diarrhea," as pointed out by the NLM.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
The NLM suggests taking the medication with food as it can upset the stomach. The medication may also cause a loss of appetite or vomiting. The NLM recommends contacting your doctor if these side effects are persistent or bothersome. eMedTV.com suggests these effects and skin rash are the most commonly occurring reactions to co-trimoxazole. Although skin rashes are common, eMedTV.com warns that these rashes are serious and should be treated by a doctor.
Serious Side Effects
Any serious side effects of co-trimoxazole should be reported to your doctor. These effects may include a skin rash, itching, sore throat, fever, chills, oral lesions, bruising easily, bleeding easily, yellowing of the skin or the eyes, paleness and/or aching joints. eMedTV.com also suggests medical attention for watery or bloody diarrhea, shortness of breath and decreased urination.
Other serious health concerns that may be possible include anemia, frequent infections, hypoglycemia, hallucinations, depression, muscle weakness and/or seizures. eMedTV.com warns that these health conditions and symptoms that go with them are unusual and abnormal. They identify other symptoms that may accompany these health issues, including abnormal sensations like burning, tingling, or prickling; light-colored stools; dark urine; abdominal pain in the upper right section; muscle weakness; fatigue; insomnia; nervousness; ringing of the ears; headaches; vertigo.
Allergic Reaction
Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to co-trimoxazole. These serious symptoms may include unusual swelling, especially of the face and mouth, hives, skin rash with itching and/or trouble breathing. An allergic reaction can be serious and even fatal if not treated immediately.
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