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Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole

This form:

Pronounced

"sull-fuh-meth-OX-uh-zole/try-METH-oh-prim"

Common brand names:

Bactrim, Septra, Trisulfa

Uses

This medication is a combination of two antibiotics: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections (such as middle ear, urine, respiratory, and intestinal infections). It is also used to prevent and treat a certain type of pneumonia (pneumocystis-type).

This medication should not be used by children less than 2 months of age due to the risk of serious side effects.

This medication treats only certain types of infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water (8 ounces / 240 milliliters) as directed by your doctor,. If stomach upset occurs, take with food or milk. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to lower the unlikely risk of kidney stones forming, unless your doctor advises you otherwise. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.

Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.