Antibiotics Online

Bactrim

Buy Bactrim Online
Buy Bactrim Online

Bactrim is a brand name for a combination antibiotic medication that contains two active ingredients: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It is commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms.

Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim work together to inhibit the growth and multiplication of bacteria. Sulfamethoxazole belongs to a class of antibiotics called sulfonamides, while trimethoprim is a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor. This combination is often referred to as a "sulfonamide antibiotic" or "trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole."

Antibiotic is commonly used to treat urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections (such as bronchitis and pneumonia), middle ear infections, and various types of skin and soft tissue infections. It can also be prescribed for the prevention and treatment of certain types of pneumonia in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Uses of Bactrim

Bactrim is used for the treatment of infections caused by several Gram-positive as well as Gram-negative bacteria. It is indicated for the treatment of:

  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia
  • Ear infections
  • Traveler´s diarrhea
  • Shigellosis
  • Urinary Tract Infections
Bactrim is an antibiotic

Dosage

Typically, Bactrim is available in tablet form, with each tablet containing a fixed combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. The dosage may be expressed in terms of the total milligrams of both active ingredients or as the number of tablets to be taken.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the usual recommended dosage for most infections is one double-strength tablet (containing 800 mg sulfamethoxazole and 160 mg trimethoprim) taken every 12 hours. However, dosages can vary based on the specific condition being treated.

For children under 12 years old, the dosage is typically based on body weight. The exact dosage and duration of treatment should be determined by a doctor.

It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. This helps ensure the infection is fully treated and reduces the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.

How to Take

  1. Dosage: Take the prescribed dosage as instructed. The dosage can vary depending on your age, the type of infection, and your overall health.
  2. Timing: Bactrim is typically taken orally, with or without food. It's essential to maintain a regular dosing schedule and take the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day.
  3. Swallowing: Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
  4. Duration: Complete the full course of treatment prescribed, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication prematurely may allow the infection to return or lead to antibiotic resistance.
  5. Missed Dose: If you accidentally miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

Contraindications of Bactrim

Bactrim is contraindicated in many situations like:

  • It is contraindicated in the patients who are sensitive to sulfamethoxazole or trimethoprim.
  • You should not take Bactrim if you suffer from any renal disease.
  • Bactrim is strictly contraindicated if you suffer from liver disease.
  • You must not take this medicine if you have red blood cell deficiency (anemia) due to folic acid deficiency.
  • If you have low platelet count caused by trimethoprim or due to any sulfa drug.
  • It should not be given to a baby who is less than 2 months old.

Before taking Bactrim, you must tell your doctor if you have:

  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Severe allergies
  • Asthama
  • Folic acid deficiency
  • Any thyroid disease
  • Porphyria
  • HIV or AIDS
  • G6PD deficiency ( Glucose- 6- phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency)
  • Malnutrition
  • Enzyme disorder that affects nervous system or skin
Bactrim Tablets

Bactrim and Pregnancy

You must not is not safe for use during pregnancy. It may cause dangerous side effects to the unborn baby. You must use birth control measures and let your doctor know if you are pregnant.

Trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole can pass into the breast milk and may cause side- effects to a nursing baby.

Side Effects of Bactrim

The side effects of Bactrim are seen more in older adults. It may cause serious side effects in those who take medications like digoxin or other diuretics.

The side effects include:

  • Allergic reactions that manifests as hives, swelling on tongue, lips, throat and face and difficulty in breathing.
  • Bloody or watery diarrhea
  • Rapid heart rate, pale skin, short breath and feeling light- headed
  • Weakness, feeling ill, chills, cough, sore throat and fever
  • Swelling in gums, mouth sore, skin sores, pain while swallowing and cold symptoms
  • Liver problems manifesting as pain in stomach, clay colored stools, dark urine and jaundice
  • Low sodium in body causing headache, confusion, weakness, slurred speech, vomiting, etc.
  • Skin reactions like fever, swelling on face/ tongue, skin pain, burning in eyes, red or purple rash, blistering or peeling.
  • Vomiting
  • Rash or itching
  • Nausea

Interactions

Bactrim can interact with other medications, substances, or medical conditions. Here are some common interactions associated with this drug:

Medications that may interact with Bactrim include:

  • Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin): Antibiotic may enhance the effects of blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of blood clotting parameters may be necessary.
  • Medications metabolized by the liver (e.g., phenytoin, methotrexate): Bactrim may affect the metabolism of these drugs, potentially increasing their levels in the body and leading to side effects. Dose adjustments may be needed.
  • Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): The combination of Bactrim and diuretics may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalances, particularly high potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
  • Antidiabetic medications: Bactrim can affect blood sugar levels, so close monitoring of blood glucose is necessary for individuals with diabetes who are taking antidiabetic medications.

Substances that may interact with Bactrim include:

  • Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Bactrim, as it may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

Medical conditions that may interact with Bactrim include:

  • Kidney or liver disease: Bactrim is eliminated from the body primarily through the kidneys. Impaired kidney or liver function may affect the clearance of Bactrim and require dosage adjustments.
  • Allergies or asthma: Antibiotic contains sulfamethoxazole, which can cause allergic reactions or worsen asthma symptoms in some individuals.
  • Folate deficiency: Antibiotic can interfere with folate metabolism, so individuals with folate deficiency may require additional monitoring or supplementation.

Warnings

Here are some important warnings associated with the use of Bactrim:

  1. Allergic reactions: Bactrim contains sulfamethoxazole, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
  2. Severe skin reactions: Medicament may rarely cause severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, which can be life-threatening. If you develop a severe rash, blistering, peeling of the skin, or mucosal involvement (e.g., in the mouth or eyes), discontinue Bactrim immediately and seek medical help.
  3. Diarrhea and antibiotic-associated colitis: Antibiotic use can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the intestines and cause diarrhea. In rare cases, this can progress to a more severe condition known as antibiotic-associated colitis, which may require medical intervention.
  4. Blood disorders: Bactrim can affect blood cell production, leading to blood disorders such as anemia, leukopenia (low white blood cell count), or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
  5. Kidney and liver function: Drug is primarily eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Impaired kidney function may affect the clearance of Bactrim and require dosage adjustments. In some cases, Bactrim can also cause liver toxicity.
  6. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Bactrim should be used with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. It can also pass into breast milk and may harm nursing infants.
  7. Resistance and superinfection: Prolonged or inappropriate use of antibiotics like Bactrim may result in bacterial resistance, reducing its effectiveness. Additionally, it can lead to the development of superinfections caused by bacteria or fungi that are not susceptible to Bactrim.

Bactrim and Alcohol

It is generally recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Bactrim due to potential interactions and increased risk of side effects. Here's why:

  1. Increased side effects: Both Bactrim and alcohol can cause similar side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. When taken together, these effects can be amplified, making you feel more intoxicated or unwell.
  2. Liver metabolism: Medicament is metabolized in the liver, and alcohol consumption can also affect liver function. Combining Bactrim with alcohol may put additional strain on the liver and potentially lead to liver damage or impairment.
  3. Reduced efficacy: Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of antibiotics in general, including Bactrim. It may hinder the body's ability to fight off the infection and reduce the overall efficacy of the medication.
  4. Dehydration: Both Bactrim and alcohol can have a diuretic effect, meaning they increase urine production and can contribute to dehydration. Combining the two may exacerbate dehydration and potentially lead to electrolyte imbalances.

To ensure the safe and effective use of Bactrim, it is advisable to refrain from consuming alcohol while taking the medication.

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