Bactrim
(sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim)
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3.6/ 5 average rating with 473 reviewsforBactrim
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Kills bacteria.
Skip Upsides & Downsides section. Skip to side effects section.
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Our bottom line
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) is good for treating many bacterial infections and is available as a generic. However, you can be more likely to sunburn.
Quick facts about Bactrim
- Drug class: Infection
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim)
Upsides
- Widely available as a generic product and in a variety of formulations (tablet, capsule, suspension).
- Works well to treat many types of bacterial infections
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What to expect from Bactrim, on one page
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473Downsides
- Makes you sensitive to the sun.
- Can upset your stomach
- Drink plenty of water or fluids to avoid harming your kidneys
- May cause birth defects
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What to expect from Bactrim, on one page
Download Fact SheetHow it works
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) is a combination antibiotic that contains sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It kills bacteria.
Quick facts about Bactrim
- Drug class: Infection
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim)
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Liquid
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.Prices and coupons for 20 (800mg-160mg) tablets of sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim near
- Medicine ShoppeGet free coupon$6.65
- Kroger PharmacyGet free coupon$7.69
Sign up now for a 30-day trial and save up to 95% at CVS, Kroger, Albertsons, and other pharmacies.
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See more prices and coupons in your areaWhat to expect when you take Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) for Infection
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Rash
- Serious allergic reaction
Side effect rates for Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim)
Risks and Warnings for Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.Like all antibiotics, Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) can cause diarrhea. Taking probiotic supplements a few hours after taking Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) may help with the diarrhea. If diarrhea worsens or becomes bloody, talk to your doctor right away.
Pharmacist Q&A
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) questions for
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this drug for?
This medication treats acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.Common concerns from people taking Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?Pregnancy
Research studies with real people found harmful effects on unborn babies, but the benefits might outweigh the risks even if you’re pregnant. Talk with your doctor.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.FDA pregnancy category for Bactrim
DWeigh risks vs. benefits
Kidneys and liver
- Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) can harm your kidneys, especially if you're taking anti-inflammatory pain relievers like Motrin or Advil or other medicines that also affect your kidneys. Make sure to drink plenty of water or fluids while you're taking Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim).
Pain
- Not worth itBig hassleReviewed Bactrimon 10/13/2016UTI pain gone in 1 day but severe GI symptoms & accelerated heart rate started w/i 24 hrs of 1st dose.38WomanUrinary tract infection