Bactrim Drug Info
Bactrim Drug Uses: Bactrim is used for urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, middle ear infections, for prevention of infections due to pneumococcus in transplant recipients, for the treatment or prevention of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, chancroid, and prevention of toxoplasma encephalitis in patients with AIDS.
How to Use Bactrim: Bactrim is taken two to three times daily, with or without meals, depending on the type and severity of infection. It should be taken with 6 to 8 ounces of liquid to prevent crystals from forming in the urine. Persons with advanced kidney disease may require lower doses.
Bactrim Precautions: The effects of the sulfonamide class of antibiotics, including sulfamethoxazole, on the fetus have not been adequately studied. Physicians may elect to use cotrimoxazole if its benefits are deemed to outweigh potential risks. On the other hand, use of sulfonamides near term (that is, by the ninth month) may cause bilirubin to be displaced from proteins in the infant's blood. Displacement of bilirubin can lead to jaundice and a dangerous condition called kernicterus in the infant. For this reason, cotrimoxazole should not be used near term in pregnant women.
Bactrim Drug Interactions: Bactrim may increase the effects of oral anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) and lead to bleeding. Tell your doctor if you are taking a blood thinner. Bactrim may also increase the effects of drugs used to treat diabetes, such as glipizide (Glucotrol), glyburide (Glynase, Micronase, Diabeta), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), tolbutamide (Orinase), and tolazamide (Tolinase). Very low blood sugar levels may result. Watch for changes in your blood sugar if you are a diabetic.
Bactrim Possible Side Effects: Stop taking sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following serious side effects: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); unusual bleeding or bruising; or yellow skin or eyes.
Bactrim Overdose: Seek emergency medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of Bactrim overdose include: yellowing of the skin or eyes, decreased urine production, bloody urine, and coma.
Bactrim Storage: Store Bactrim at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Avoid excessive heat. Avoid freezing. Keep out of the reach of children. Dispense of this medicine in a tight, light-resistant container. Do not store Bactrim in the bathroom.
Bactrim Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Disclaimer: The information found on this website is for informational purposes only. It does not cover all possible uses, procedures, safety measures, side effects, or drug interactions of the products. We are not responsible for the accuracy and reliability of this drug information, or any consequences arising from the use of this information. This is only general information and should not be relied on for any purpose.
|