An Overview of Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethaprim (Bactrim, Septra, Sulfatrim)

sul-fa-meth-OX-a-zole, trye-METH-oh-prim

Brand Name: Bactrim, Septra, Sulfatrim
Other Name(s): Cotrimoxazole, Sulfametoxazol - Trimetoprima, TMP-SMX, Trimethoprim
Drug Class: Opportunistic Infection and Other Drugs

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, also known as cotrimoxazole, Bactrim, Septra, or SMX-TMP, belongs to the class of medicines called antibacterials. It also belongs to the class of medicines called antiprotozoals. Antibacterials kill bacteria or stop bacteria from multiplying. Antiprotozoals help the body overcome infections caused by protozoa, which are microscopic organisms that can cause disease. When bacterial and protozoal infections occur in patients with weakened immune systems, including people with HIV, they tend to be more serious and are called opportunistic infections (OIs).

HIV/AIDS-Related Uses

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim was approved by the FDA on June 23, 1981, for the treatment and prevention of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), a common OI in people with HIV.

Dosage Form/Administration

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim comes in oral suspension and tablet form and is taken by mouth. The oral forms should be taken with a full glass of water. The oral suspension should be shaken well before use. Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim also comes in a liquid concentrate that is mixed with dextrose and given by intravenous injection into a vein.

Contraindications

Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects

Along with its desired effects, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim can cause some unwanted effects. Serious side effects of this medicine include itching; skin rash; aching of joints and muscles; difficulty in swallowing; pale skin; redness; blistering, peeling, or loosening of skin; sore throat and fever; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness; yellow eyes or skin; or increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight. Individuals should tell a doctor if they have any of these side effects.Other side effects may not be serious and may lessen or disappear with continued use of the medicine. Less serious side effects of this medicine include diarrhea, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, and tiredness. Individuals should tell a doctor if these side effects continue or are bothersome.

Drug and Food Interactions

A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials

Click here to search ClinicalTrials.gov for trials that use Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim.

Manufacturer Information

Bactrim
Women First Healthcare
5355 Mira Sorrento Place - Suite 700
San Diego, CA 92121
Phone: 858-509-1171
Fax: 858-509-1353

Septra
King Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
501 Fifth Street
Bristol, TN 37620
Phone: 800-776-3637

Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim
King Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
501 Fifth Street
Bristol, TN 37620
Phone: 800-776-3637