Bactrim DS

Uses
Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) is a combination of two antibiotics at a 5:1 ratio. This combination is often referred to as co-trimoxazole and works by targeting the bacteria that cause infections. Sulfamethoxazole is known as a sulphonamide and the other ingredient is considered to be similar to sulphonamides. Both of these ingredients act together to treat the symptoms of bacterial infections. Due to the risk of serious side effects, it is generally only used for serious infections. Doctors only tell patients to use it for infections which are less serious in nature when a tissue sample has confirmed that it the bacteria are susceptible to the active ingredients.

This medicine is active against gram positive and gram negative bacteria, including infections occurring as a result of straphylococcus aureus, traphylococcus saprophyticus, listeria monocytogenes and various others. It has also been used for certain protozoal infections and a fungal infection caused by pneumocystis jirovecii. When absorbed, it prevents the bacteria from synthesizing folate (folic acid). Without this, the production of DNA by the bacteria is not possible, preventing it from growing and allowing any bacteria that are left over to be destroyed. Conditions treated include toxoplasmosis, nocardiosis (a type of lung infection), urinary tract infections, chronic bronchitis, ear infections and other conditions not listed here.

Dosage and Administration
Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) tablets contain 160mg of trimethoprim and 800mg of sulfamethoxazole. The exact dosage can depend on a number of factors and patients should note that deciding the correct dosage is the responsibility of the doctor providing treatment. It is very important to continue administering the medicine for the entire period of time that your doctor prescribes. If you stop treatment early (even if your symptoms have improved) the infection may return. Missing doses can also put you at risk of antibiotic resistant infections.

Side effects
Treatment with Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) can cause side effects, such as:

• Insomnia
• Feeling dizzy
• Appetite reduction
• Hearing a ringing noise
• Soreness that affects the tongue

Your doctor must be notified if any side effects occur. The occurrence of serious side effects is possible in patients treated with this medicine. You will need to visit your doctor or the hospital immediately if you experience hallucinations, peeling of the skin, aching in the joints, sores on the mouth, fever or any other serious symptoms.

Precautions
You may be told by your doctor to drink a sufficient but not excessive amount of fluids during treatment so as to prevent kidney stones.

Before treatment, you must inform your doctor if you are currently affected by or have a history of medical disorders affecting the liver, kidney disease, allergies which are severe in nature, asthma or G-6-PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency).

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Bactrim DS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.