Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is sold under many trade names such as Bactrim DS, Septra, Cotrimoxazole and Sulatrim. This drug belongs to the class of sulfonamides and works by inhibiting the production of proteins by bacteria.
Bactrim is available as an oral suspension, tablets, and an injectable solution. It is used in the treatment of many infections such as bacterial meningitis, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, shigella infection, traveler’s diarrhea and urinary tract infections. It is also used in prophylactic therapy.
The common side effects caused by Bactrim include nausea, vomiting, rash, and vertigo. Sulfonamides can also cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
To recap, broad-spectrum antibiotics are essential in management of infections. However, their use should always be limited to certain conditions and if possible, the therapy should be switched back to narrow-spectrum antibiotics once the specific organism causing the infection has been identified. Remember to always consult a doctor before using the meds.
