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Printable Version Bactrim DS Tablets

Active Ingredients: Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim
Other Names: Bacter-Aid DS Tablets, Bactrim DS Tablets, Bactrim Tablets, Septra DS Tablets, Septra Tablets
Drug Class: Sulfonamides and Related Compounds
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Bactrim DS Tablets?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Bactrim DS Tablets? (Back to top)
SULFAMETHOXAZOLE; TRIMETHOPRIM or SMX-TMP is a combination of a sulfonamide antibiotic and a second antibiotic, trimethoprim. It is used to treat bacterial infections. It is also used to prevent infections in people who are at risk. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia
  • asthma
  • being treated with anticonvulsants
  • if you frequently drink alcohol containing drinks
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease
  • low level of folic acid or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
  • poor nutrition or malabsorption
  • porphyria
  • severe allergies
  • thyroid disorder
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine has been used in children as young as 2 months of age.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

  • aminobenzoate potassium
  • dofetilide
  • metronidazole

This medicine may also interact with the following:
  • ACE inhibitors like benazepril, enalapril, lisinopril, and ramipril
  • cyclosporine
  • digoxin
  • diuretics
  • indomethacin
  • medicines for diabetes
  • methenamine
  • methotrexate
  • phenytoin
  • potassium supplements
  • pyrimethamine
  • sulfinpyrazone
  • tricyclic antidepressants
  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • fever or chills, sore throat
  • irregular heartbeat, chest pain
  • joint or muscle pain
  • pain or difficulty passing urine
  • red pinpoint spots on skin
  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusually weak or tired
  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • headache
  • loss of appetite
  • nausea, vomiting
  • nervousness

This list may not describe all possible side effects.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. Drink several glasses of water a day to reduce the risk of kidney problems.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:March 20, 2007

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Bactrim DS Tablets

  Learn how Bactrim DS Tablets is/are used to treat:
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
  • Otitis Media

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Bactrim DS Tablets, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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