Part Two of Bactrim Information, Focusing on Side Effects, Discontinuation or Withdrawal Effects, and Additional Information

This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.

What are the possible side effects of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim?

  • Stop taking sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following serious side effects:
    • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
    • unusual bleeding or bruising; or
    • yellow skin or eyes.
  • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take your medication and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • headache, fatigue, or dizziness;
    • nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, or diarrhea;
    • weakness; or
    • increased sensitivity to the sun.
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim?

  • Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim may increase the effects of oral anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) and lead to bleeding. Tell your doctor if you are taking a blood thinner.
  • Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim may also increase the effects of drugs used to treat diabetes, such as glipizide (Glucotrol), glyburide (Glynase, Micronase, Diabeta), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), tolbutamide (Orinase), and tolazamide (Tolinase). Very low blood sugar levels may result. Watch for changes in your blood sugar if you are a diabetic.
  • Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim may increase the effects of phenytoin (Dilantin) and lead to dangerous side effects. Watch for unusual side effects during treatment.
  • Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist has additional information about sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim written for health professionals that you may read.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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Although we have made considerable efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, MedLibrary.org makes no guarantee to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. This medication information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend any specific pharmacotherapy. This is an educational resource only -- intended to supplement but not to replace the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of medically qualified healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, please check with your doctor, nurse or local pharmacist. MedLibrary.org does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided here.

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Version: 3.02. Revision Date: 2/14/03.