Bactrim

If you have AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and are taking Bactrim to treat or prevent Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, you will experience more side effects than will someone without AIDS.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Bactrim

If Bactrim is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Bactrim with the following:

Amantadine (Symmetrel)
Blood thinners such as Coumadin
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
Oral diabetes medications such as Micronase and Glucotrol
Pyrimethamine (Daraprim)
Seizure medications such as Dilantin
Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil, Norpramin, Sinequan, and Tofranil
Water pills (diuretics) such as HydroDIURIL

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Bactrim should not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Bactrim does appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. It should not be taken while breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Urinary Tract Infections and Intestinal Inflammation

The usual adult dosage in the treatment of urinary tract infection is 1 Bactrim DS (double strength tablet) or 2 Bactrim tablets, or 4 teaspoonfuls (20 milliliters) of Bactrim Pediatric Suspension every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days. The dosage for inflammation of the intestine is the same but is taken for 5 days.

Worsening of Chronic Bronchitis

The usual recommended dosage is 1 Bactrim DS (double strength tablet), 2 Bactrim tablets, or 4 teaspoonfuls (20 milliliters) of Bactrim Pediatric Suspension every 12 hours for 14 days.

Treatment of Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia

The recommended dosage is 15 to 20 milligrams of trimethoprim and 75 to 100 milligrams of sulfamethoxazole per 2.2 pounds of body weight per 24 hours divided into equal doses every 6 hours for 14 to 21 days.