Bactrim (Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim)

Do's:

• Take Bactrim by mouth with a full glass of water (8 ounces / 240 milliliters) as directed by your healthcare provider. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• If stomach upset occurs, take it with food or milk. 
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking Bactrim to lower the unlikely risk of kidney stones forming, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
• For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help remember, take this medication at the same time(s) every day.
• Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days.
• Inform your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse while taking Bactrim.
• Adhere to the specific dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication's accompanying information. 
• In addition, seek guidance from your healthcare provider for any specific concerns related to the use of Bactrim.

Don'ts

• Do not stop taking the medication too early as it may result in a return of the infection.

Common Side Effects: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Changes in skin color

Inform your healthcare provider promptly if any of these effects last or worsen.

Serious Side Effects: 

• Black, tarry stools
• Blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
• Changes in skin color
• Chest pain or tightness
• Chills
• Clay-colored stools
• Cough or hoarseness
• Dark urine
• Fever

If any of these serious side effects occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Rare Reactions: 

Rare, severe, and sometimes fatal reactions have been reported following the administration of sulfonamide-containing medicines such as Bactrim. Reactions have included:

• Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a disorder involving the skin and mucous membranes),
• Liver disease
• Blood disorders such as thrombocytopenia (low platelets). 

Bactrim should be discontinued at the first sign of a skin rash or any other worrying side effect.

Other Considerations: 

Elderly people may be more susceptible to the side effects of Bactrim. In addition, Bactrim may cause allergic reactions, electrolyte and blood glucose changes, and low platelet levels.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individuals should consult their healthcare provider for comprehensive information about potential side effects and any specific concerns related to the use of Bactrim.

Bactrim should be taken only as directed by a healthcare provider and should not be shared with others, as misuse can encourage the development of drug-resistant bacteria and reduce its effectiveness.

Bactrim should not be used in individuals with severe liver disease, kidney disease that is not being monitored, anemia caused by folic acid deficiency, or those taking dofetilide. It should also be avoided in individuals who have had low platelets caused by using Bactrim.

AIDS patients may not tolerate or respond to Bactrim in the same manner as non-AIDS patients. The incidence of adverse reactions, particularly rash, fever, leukopenia, and elevated aminotransferase values, with Bactrim therapy in AIDS patients who are being treated for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia has been reported to be greatly increased compared with the incidence normally associated with the use of Bactrim in non-AIDS patients.

Bactrim may interact with other drugs. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Bactrim should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease or liver disease, and the dosage may need to be adjusted. 

It is uncertain if drinking alcohol while taking Bactrim is safe, and pregnant individuals should seek medical advice before taking this medication.