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Bactrim side effects
Mar 8, 2009
Hi Dr Young,
First I would like to thank you for your immediate response early this year when I needed advise about efavirenz and Lamzid prescribed for my partner. He is tolerating the drugs ok so far.
We just have a concern, he has developed rash on his arms and legs and that does not seem to go even with anti-allergic lotions. Initially we thought its just a skin reaction as he usually gets that in summer. Lately it seems seems to be spreading to the body as well (never before), although it has not manifested like it is on the arms and legs. Where it seems to be healing,the sores leaves ugly dark patches, don't even know whether its even right calling it a rash. Could this be a side-effect of bactrim and would he require a switch? Someone suggested dapsone as an alternative, but I read about the side effects it might have and we're a bit hesitant. When he started on meds in Jan the cd4 count was 100, so he still needs bactrim as his cd4 is still low.
Your advise is always appreciated.
Candy, SA
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Response from Dr. Young
Dear Sandy SA,
Thanks for your comments and follow up.
It is good to hear that your friend is doing well on the efavirenz and Lamzid (AZT+3TC).
A rash that is limited to the arms and legs isn't one that I'd call a generalized drug reaction (as would usually be the case with a sulfa allergy). On the other hand, this anatomic distribution is highly suggestive of a sun-related reaction with the sulfa, a not uncommon event.
Avoiding sun exposure to the arms and legs (either with clothing or sunscreen) often helps this.
As for dapsone, if the above strategy doesn't help, a switch could be in order. We find the medication to be quite well tolerated and FWIW, you are correct that your friend does need to continue on medication to prevent PCP.
Best of health to both of you,
BY
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