An Introduction to Side Effects of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (
Bactrim®, Bactrim
® DS,
Septra®, Septra
® DS,
Sulfatrim®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim side effects with you.)
There are a number of possible side effects with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider, including, but not limited to:
- Signs of high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), including:
- Abnormal sensations, such as burning, tingling, or pricking
- Muscle weakness
- Low heart rate (bradycardia)
- Seizures
- Watery or bloody diarrhea (which may occur long after you stop taking sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim)
- Signs of anemia, such as fatigue and pale skin
- Signs of low white blood cells, such as frequent infections
- Signs of low blood platelets, such as easy bruising or bleeding
- Signs of kidney damage, such as very decreased urination
- Signs of liver damage, such as yellow eyes or skin (jaundice), upper right abdominal pain, light-colored stools, or dark urine
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- A cough or shortness of breath
- Hallucinations
- Depression
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- An unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Unexplained swelling (especially of the lips, mouth, or throat)
- Wheezing or other breathing problems.
