Bactrim DS (Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim)

Do's

• Take Bactrim DS by mouth with a full glass of water (8 ounces / 240 milliliters) as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• Take the medication with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. 
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to lower the unlikely risk of kidney stones forming, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. 
• Take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times for the best effect. 
• Take this medication at the same time(s) every day to help you remember. 
• Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days as stopping it too early may result in a return of the infection. 
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or gets worse. 

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. 

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Skin rash
• Gut-related issues such as stomach pain and discomfort 

It is recommended to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to prevent any harmful side effects. Contact your healthcare provider if any of these side effects escalate.

Serious Side Effects: 

• Severe allergic reactions
• Skin rash
• Blood disorders
• Liver damage
• Lung injury
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions

If you experience symptoms such as sore throat or fever that doesn't go away, cough that doesn't go away, skin rash or blisters, severe dizziness, joint pain, trouble breathing, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, seek medical help immediately.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects, and others may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Bactrim DS, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Before taking Bactrim DS, inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, or sulfa medications. This is important because the product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Seniors, children, individuals with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes, seizures), or those taking other medications are at a higher risk of developing a wider range of side effects when using Bactrim DS.

In patients with kidney or liver disease, Bactrim DS should be used with caution, and the dosage may need to be adjusted. It should not be used for patients who have serious kidney or liver disease.

It is uncertain if drinking alcohol while taking Bactrim DS is safe; seek medical advice before doing so.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult a healthcare provider before taking Bactrim DS, as there may be specific considerations related to pregnancy.

The information provided here is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare providers. Therefore, consulting your healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment is crucial.