Sulfamethoxazole (200mg) + Trimethoprim (40mg)

Sulfamethoxazole (200mg) + Trimethoprim (40mg) — Uses and Benefits

This combination antibiotic is used to treat various bacterial infections in the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis
• Traveller's diarrhoea and certain intestinal infections
• Ear infections such as acute otitis media in children
• Prevention and treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, especially in people with weak immunity

HOW IT WORKS

• Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim block two different steps in the bacteria's folic acid production pathway
• This combined action stops bacteria from growing and multiplying, eventually killing them
• Using both drugs together makes the treatment more effective and reduces the chance of bacterial resistance

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat viral infections like common cold or flu
• It is not effective against fungal infections
• It is not used for infections known to be resistant to this combination
• It should not be used as a general painkiller or fever reducer

How to Use Sulfamethoxazole (200mg) + Trimethoprim (40mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with a full glass of water
• It can be taken with or after food to reduce stomach upset
• Drink plenty of fluids through the day while on this medicine
• Complete the full course even if you start feeling better, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Sulfamethoxazole (200mg) + Trimethoprim (40mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Mild skin rash

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to sunlight

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling of skin
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or persistent sore throat and fever (signs of blood disorders)
• Severe diarrhoea that does not stop
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, or severe allergic reaction
• Signs of kidney problems such as reduced urination or swelling

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Sulfamethoxazole (200mg) + Trimethoprim (40mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to sulfonamides, trimethoprim, or any component of this medicine
• Have a history of severe blood disorders like megaloblastic anaemia due to folate deficiency
• Are pregnant near term or breastfeeding a newborn, unless specifically advised by your doctor
• Have severe kidney disease with no monitoring facility

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Have a history of asthma or severe allergies
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
• Are elderly or have any blood-related disorders

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Medicines for diabetes such as sulfonylureas
• Methotrexate used for cancer or arthritis
• Phenytoin used for seizures
• Water pills (diuretics), especially in elderly patients
• ACE inhibitors or potassium supplements

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine for a common cold?

No, this is an antibiotic and does not work against viral infections like cold or flu.

Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects like nausea and dizziness.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, complete the full course as prescribed to prevent the infection from returning or becoming resistant.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.