Bactrim: Potent Dual-Antibiotic Therapy for Bacterial Infections
Bactrim
| Product dosage: 480mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 90 | $0.46 | $41.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.42 | $54.67 $50.00 (9%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.38 | $82.00 $68.00 (17%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.36 | $123.00 $97.00 (21%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.34
Best per pill | $164.00 $121.00 (26%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Bactrim is a combination antibiotic medication containing sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It belongs to the class of drugs known as sulfonamides and works synergistically to inhibit successive steps in the biosynthesis of nucleic acids and proteins essential to many bacteria. This dual-action mechanism provides a broad spectrum of bactericidal activity against a wide array of susceptible organisms. It is a cornerstone in the treatment of various common and opportunistic infections, particularly when resistance to single-agent antibiotics is a concern. Its formulation ensures targeted delivery and efficacy, making it a reliable choice for clinicians in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Features
- Combination antibiotic containing 400 mg sulfamethoxazole and 80 mg trimethoprim per single-strength tablet (800 mg/160 mg for double-strength).
- Synergistic bactericidal action by sequentially blocking bacterial folate metabolism.
- Broad-spectrum activity against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic bacteria.
- Available in oral tablet and oral suspension formulations for flexible dosing.
- Standardized, bioavailable formulation ensuring consistent pharmacokinetics.
Benefits
- Effectively treats a wide range of common bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, and traveler’s diarrhea.
- Proven efficacy in treating and preventing certain opportunistic infections, such as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), particularly in immunocompromised patients.
- The dual-mechanism action can help overcome or prevent the development of bacterial resistance compared to single-agent therapies.
- Well-established safety and efficacy profile supported by decades of clinical use and research.
- Convenient twice-daily dosing regimen promotes patient adherence to the treatment plan.
- Provides a cost-effective therapeutic option for many common bacterial infections.
Common use
Bactrim is indicated for the treatment of a variety of infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms. Its primary uses include the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to susceptible strains of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter species, Morganella morganii, Proteus mirabilis, and Proteus vulgaris. It is also used for acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis in adults due to susceptible strains of Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae. Another common indication is for the treatment of enteritis caused by susceptible strains of Shigella flexneri and Shigella sonnei (bacillary dysentery). Furthermore, it is the agent of choice for the treatment and prophylaxis of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP). It is also used for the treatment of otitis media in children due to susceptible strains of Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae when in the judgment of the physician, it offers an advantage over other antimicrobials.
Dosage and direction
The dosage of Bactrim must be individualized based on the type and severity of infection and the patient’s renal function.
- For Urinary Tract Infections & Shigellosis in Adults and Children: The usual adult dosage is 1 double-strength tablet (800 mg sulfamethoxazole/160 mg trimethoprim) or 2 single-strength tablets (400 mg/80 mg each) every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days. For children, the dose is based on weight (8-10 mg/kg trimethoprim and 40-50 mg/kg sulfamethoxazole per 24 hours), administered in two divided doses every 12 hours for 10 days.
- For Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis in Adults: The usual adult dosage is 1 double-strength tablet every 12 hours for 14 days.
- For Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PCP) Treatment: The recommended dosage is 15-20 mg/kg trimethoprim and 75-100 mg/kg sulfamethoxazole per 24 hours, given in equally divided doses every 6 to 8 hours for 14 to 21 days.
- For Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PCP) Prophylaxis: The recommended dosage is 1 double-strength tablet daily.
- Renal Impairment: For patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance 15-30 mL/min), a 50% reduction in the usual dosage is recommended. Bactrim is not recommended for patients with a creatinine clearance less than 15 mL/min.
It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of therapy, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. The oral suspension should be shaken well before each use. This medication is best absorbed when taken with a full glass of water and may be taken with or without food to minimize potential stomach upset.
Precautions
Patients should be closely monitored during therapy with Bactrim. Use with caution in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function, possible folate deficiency, severe allergy or bronchial asthma, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as hemolysis may occur. Maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent crystalluria and stone formation. Periodic CBCs are advisable during prolonged therapy. Bactrim may cause photosensitivity; patients should be advised to use sunscreen and protective clothing. This drug may also cause dizziness; patients should be cautioned about driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Contraindications
Bactrim is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to trimethoprim, sulfonamides, or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with documented megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency. It is contraindicated in pregnancy at term and during the nursing period because sulfonamides may cause kernicterus in the newborn. It is also contraindicated in infants less than 2 months of age.
Possible side effect
As with all medications, Bactrim can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and mild skin rash or itching. More serious side effects require immediate medical attention. These include severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis), which may present with skin rash, blistering, peeling, or mouth sores; signs of blood disorders (sore throat, fever, pale skin, unusual bruising or bleeding, unusual tiredness or weakness); liver problems (upper stomach pain, jaundice, dark urine); severe diarrhea (which may be watery or bloody); or signs of an electrolyte imbalance (muscle cramps, weakness, confusion, irregular heart rate). Any sign of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, constitutes a medical emergency.
Drug interaction
Bactrim has the potential to interact with many other medications, which can alter its effects or increase the risk of serious side effects. It may increase the effects of warfarin and other oral anticoagulants, potentially leading to bleeding. It can prolong the half-life of phenytoin, increasing the risk of toxicity. Concurrent use with methotrexate may increase the risk of bone marrow suppression. Bactrim may enhance the hypoglycemic effect of sulfonylureas (e.g., glyburide). It can also increase the levels of digoxin in the blood, especially in elderly patients. Diuretics, particularly thiazides, may increase the incidence of thrombocytopenia with purpura in elderly patients taking Bactrim. It may also interfere with the serum methotrexate assay.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling the dose to make up for a missed one is not recommended, as this increases the risk of side effects.
Overdose
Signs of acute overdose with Bactrim may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, mental depression, confusion, and bone marrow depression. More severe cases may present with jaundice, crystalluria, and hematuria. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought. General supportive measures are indicated, and hydration should be maintained to promote urinary excretion. Dialysis may be of limited value, but acidification of urine may increase renal elimination of trimethoprim.
Storage
Bactrim tablets should be stored at room temperature (20°-25°C or 68°-77°F), in a tightly closed container, and away from light, moisture, and heat. The oral suspension should be stored at room temperature and discarded after 21 days. All medications should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided may not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects.
Reviews
- “As an infectious disease specialist, Bactrim remains a first-line agent in my toolkit for uncomplicated UTIs and PCP prophylaxis. Its efficacy is well-documented, and the twice-daily dosing is manageable for most patients. I am always mindful of monitoring for rash and hematologic changes.” – Dr. E. Lawson, MD
- “I’ve prescribed Bactrim for decades for appropriate indications. It is generally effective, but patient counseling on sun exposure and hydration is paramount. The rise in resistance patterns means susceptibility testing is more critical than ever before initiation.” – Dr. A. Sharma, MD
- “For our pediatric patients with recurrent otitis media, Bactrim can be a useful alternative when first-line options are not suitable. The suspension form is acceptable to most children. We watch carefully for any signs of intolerance.” – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, C. Wallace
- “I developed a significant rash after three days on Bactrim for a UTI. While it was effective for the infection, I had to discontinue it. My doctor emphasized the importance of reporting any skin changes immediately.” – Patient, J. Higgins
- “As a long-term HIV patient, I have taken Bactrim for PCP prophylaxis for years without issue. It provides significant peace of mind. I get regular blood tests to ensure everything remains stable.” – Patient, M. Rivera