Sulfamethoxazole (800mg) + Trimethoprim (160mg)

Sulfamethoxazole (800mg) + Trimethoprim (160mg) — Uses and Benefits

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

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis
• Ear infections
• Traveler's diarrhoea caused by susceptible bacteria
• Certain types of pneumonia, including prevention in people with weak immunity

HOW IT WORKS

• Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim block two different steps in the bacteria's process of making folic acid
• Folic acid is essential for bacteria to grow and multiply
• By blocking both steps together, the combination stops bacterial growth more effectively than either drug alone

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not effective against viral infections like common cold or flu
• It should not be used for infections known to be resistant to this combination
• It is not a first-choice treatment for every type of infection; your doctor will decide based on the infection type

How to Use Sulfamethoxazole (800mg) + Trimethoprim (160mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water
• Take it with food if it upsets your stomach
• Drink plenty of fluids during the course unless advised otherwise
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it
• Do not stop the medicine early as this can lead to antibiotic resistance

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

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

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Sulfamethoxazole (800mg) + Trimethoprim (160mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash
• Itching
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Metallic taste in mouth

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin reactions such as blistering, peeling, or a widespread rash
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe sore throat, fever, or mouth ulcers (signs of blood disorder)
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat (allergic reaction)
• Severe or persistent diarrhoea

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

Sulfamethoxazole (800mg) + Trimethoprim (160mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to sulfonamides or trimethoprim
• Have severe kidney or liver disease
• Have a history of blood disorders like megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency
• Are pregnant at term or breastfeeding a newborn, unless advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver problems
• Have a folate deficiency
• Have asthma or severe allergies
• Have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as side effects may be more likely

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Methotrexate
• Medicines for diabetes such as sulfonylureas
• ACE inhibitors or potassium-sparing diuretics
• Phenytoin
• Other medicines affecting the kidney

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may increase stomach upset and reduce your body's ability to fight infection effectively.

Can I take this medicine for a common cold?

No, this medicine works only against bacteria and will not help with viral infections like cold or flu.

Is it safe to take this medicine during pregnancy?

• It should be avoided, especially in early and late pregnancy, unless your doctor decides the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.