This brand-name product is classified as asulfonamide antibioticand is available by prescription only.
While not FDA-approved, Bactrim can also used to treatsinusitis, otherwise known as asinus infection.
Instead, healthcare providers may prescribeDoxy-100 (doxycycline)orlevofloxacin.
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Microorganisms (bacteria) cause bacterial infections.
Bacteria are transmitted to humans through contaminated air, water, food, or other infected living organisms.
Bacteria may release harmful chemicals called toxins.
Untreated bacterial infections can spread rapidly and may lead to life-threatening conditions.
Antibiotics work against bacterial infections by killing the bacteria or by inhibiting their growth and multiplication in the body.
Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections only.
Examples of commonly used antibiotics include:
What Is Bactrim?
This combination of active ingredients is known as co-trimoxazole, which also can be abbreviated as TMP-Sulfa.
Bactrim has been used to treat several types of bacterial infections related tomethicillin-resistantStaphylococcusaureus(MRSA).
For example, commonly prescribed brands include Septra and Septra DS.
The combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole is also available as a generic drug in oral and injectable form.
A healthcare provider may administer one to two tablets of Bactrim DS or Bactrim every 12 to 24 hours.
How Quickly Will Bactrim Work?
Bactrim is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, producing its effects within one to four hours.
However, people with severely impaired kidney function cause have an increased half-life and require dose adjustment.
Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are primarily secreted from the body through urine.
Side Effects and Precautions
Bactrim is a generally safe antibiotic.
However, several common and potentially severe side effects are associated with this combination product, as discussed below.
Alternative Treatment Options
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat sinus infections.
However, sometimes, it is possible to avoid antibiotics and try alternative methods to improve the symptoms.
Bactrim has been a drug of choice for sinusitis for decades.
It starts working within a few hours after oral administration.
Despite its effectiveness and worldwide use, it has some severe side effects.
Avoid when pregnant or breastfeeding as it may harm the baby.
Always use this drug as prescribed for the specified period to reduce the chances of developing antibiotic resistance.
People with renal problems and folate deficiency also increase the risk of side effects.
Bactrim drug traces can be found in the urine up to three days after an oral dose.
DailyMed.Label: Bactrim DS- sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim tablet Bactrim- sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim tablet.
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