Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim 400/80 mg Bactrim – Antibacterial Medicine

Bactrim 400/80 mg – Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim

Bactrim 400/80 mg contains two antibacterial active ingredients: sulfamethoxazole 400 mg and trimethoprim 80 mg. This combination is commonly known as co-trimoxazole. The two ingredients work together by interfering with different stages of bacterial folate metabolism, helping prevent susceptible bacteria from growing and multiplying.

Bactrim may be prescribed for certain bacterial infections when the responsible bacteria are susceptible to the medicine. It is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or influenza.

Key Benefits

• Contains two complementary antibacterial ingredients.
• Works against certain susceptible bacteria.
• Interferes with bacterial folate metabolism.
• Can be prescribed for selected bacterial infections.
• Convenient oral tablet formulation.

How It Works

Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim act at different points in the bacterial folate pathway. By blocking this pathway, the combination reduces the bacteria's ability to produce substances needed for normal growth and reproduction.

How to Use

Take Bactrim exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. The appropriate dose and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection, age, kidney function, and other individual factors.

Take the medicine with sufficient water. Do not change the prescribed dose or stop treatment early without medical advice.

Possible Side Effects

Some people may experience:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach discomfort
• Headache
• Skin rash

Seek medical attention promptly if you experience a severe skin reaction, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, unusual bruising, or severe diarrhea.

Precautions

Tell your healthcare professional if you have an allergy to sulfonamide medicines or trimethoprim, kidney or liver problems, or a blood disorder.

Also provide your doctor or pharmacist with a complete list of medicines and supplements you take because Bactrim can interact with certain medicines.

Summary

Bactrim 400/80 mg combines sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim to provide antibacterial activity against certain susceptible bacteria. Use this medicine only according to professional medical advice.