Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is a prescription drug licensed for the treatment of various bacterial infections. It is also used to prevent a certain type of pneumonia in people with a weakened immune system. The medication comes in tablet and liquid form, and is typically taken twice a day. Potential side effects include rashes, nausea, and vomiting.

What Is Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim?

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim®, Bactrim® DS, Septra®, Septra® DS, Sulfatrim®) is a prescription antibiotic approved to treat a variety of different infections, including urinary tract infections and ear infections. In addition to treating infections, it is also approved for the prevention of a certain type of pneumonia (Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia) in people with a weakened immune system, such as people with HIV or AIDS.
 
(Click What Is Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim Used For? for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Potential Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Some of the common side effects include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Rashes
  • Itching.
     
(Click Side Effects of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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