Description

Bactrim 800/160mg (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim)

Bactrim 800/160mg is a prescription antibiotic with two active ingredients, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. Taken together, these medicines work to fight certain bacteria by disrupting the bacteria’s ability to make essential substances they need to grow.

Your doctor will prescribe Bactrim for some bacterial infections depending on the type of infection and your medical history. But it doesn’t work against viral infections such as the common cold or the flu. Therefore, the patients should use it only on advice of a health care professional.

What is Bactrim Used for?

Bactrim is used to treat certain urinary tract infections and other bacterial infections that are sensitive to it. In some cases, healthcare professionals may also use the combination for other infections when laboratory results or clinical assessment support its use.

Also, the right treatment depends on the bacteria. Therefore, patients should not initiate Bactrim solely based on symptoms that are similar to those of a past infection.

How Bactrim Works

Bactrim is a combination of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. These ingredients inhibit bacterial folate synthesis at different stages. This stops sensitive bacteria from producing the substances they require to grow and reproduce.

Bactrim is not a good treatment for all infections because antibiotics work on specific bacteria. So, accurate diagnosis remains important.

Important Safety Information.

Patients must tell their healthcare professional if they have any allergies, kidney or liver problems, blood disorders, are pregnant, or are taking any other medications. Also, some drugs may react with trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole.

Use exactly as prescribed on the label and do not give your medicine to anyone else. Do not stop or change treatment without advice from a health professional.

Side Effects Possible

Bactrim may have side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite or skin reactions. However, some people can have severe reactions.

Seek immediate medical attention for a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, unexplained bleeding, or other severe symptoms.

Antimicrobial stewardship

“Antibiotics must be used wisely. Taking Bactrim when it is not needed can lead to antibiotic resistance. Patients should complete the treatment course and not self-medicate with leftover antibiotics.

Summary

Bactrim 800/160mg is an antibiotic that contains sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It can be used to treat some bacterial infections when prescribed correctly. But it is important to get a correct diagnosis, have medical supervision and be aware of possible interactions and side effects. Always follow the instructions of your healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.