Bactrim is an antibiotic medication that consists of a combination of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim and is given to patients to treat and/or prevent bacterial infections. It is available in tablet and oral suspension, but the Bactrim DS (double strength) tablets are twice as strong as regular Bactrim tablets. Bactrim must only be taken as directed by a medical professional and the entire course of medication must be completed even if the symptoms disappear quickly.
Bactrim Uses
Bactrim is used in treatments of a number of bacterial infections. Among the most frequent infections that can be treated using Bactrim include urinary tract infections (UTIs), ear infections (otitis media), bronchitis, traveler's diarrhea, and pneumonia. Bactrim is also employed for the treatment of infections due to susceptible bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter species, Morganella morganii, Proteus mirabilis, and Proteus vulgaris. (2) In some instances, Bactrim is prescribed when the doctor discovers that it has an advantage over single antimicrobial agents.
Dosages and Administration
The dosage of Bactrim varies with the severity and nature of the infection, patient's age, weight, and renal function. In patients with UTIs, an average dose is one Bactrim DS tablet every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days, or two regular Bactrim tablets every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days (3). Pediatric dosages are weight based, usually 40 mg/kg sulfamethoxazole and 8 mg/kg trimethoprim in a 24-hour period divided into two 12-hourly doses for 10 days. In adults for traveler's diarrhea, the common dose is one tablet of Bactrim DS or two tablets of Bactrim every 12 hours for 5 days (3).
Side-effects
As with any drug, Bactrim can produce side effects. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and skin rash are the most frequent side effects. Severe side effects are an allergic reaction, a serious skin reaction, liver problem, or blood condition (4). The patient should call his doctor right away if he or she experiences any indication of an allergic reaction or a serious skin reaction, such as hives, trouble in breathing, fever, sore throat, or blistering (4). Diarrhea, especially bloody or watery diarrhea, should also be reported to a doctor as it may be a sign of Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD).
Precautions
Bactrim cannot be given to infants less than 2 months old. It should also not be given to patients with severe liver disease, kidney disease that is not being monitored, or anemia caused by folic acid deficiency (1). Bactrim should not also be used by individuals taking dofetilide or with a history of low blood platelets caused by trimethoprim or sulfa medications. It should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women because of the possibility of birth defects and harm to the baby (1). It is essential to make your doctor aware of any medical conditions, allergies, and medications currently being taken prior to taking Bactrim.
Sources
(1) - https://www.facebook.com/Drugscom. “Bactrim.” Drugs.com, Drugs.com, 2019, www.drugs.com/bactrim.html.
(2) - Mayo Clinic. “Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim (Oral Route) Description and Brand Names - Mayo Clinic.” Www.mayoclinic.org, www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/sulfamethoxazole-and-trimethoprim-oral-route/description/drg-20071899.
(3) - Cunha, John. “Bactrim: For UTI, Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, Warning.” RxList, 5 Sept. 2023, www.rxlist.com/bactrim-drug.htm.
(4) - Feaster, Rachel. “8 Bactrim Side Effects and Ways to Manage Them.” GoodRx, GoodRx, 5 Sept. 2023, www.goodrx.com/bactrim/how-to-manage-bactrim-side-effects.