BACTRIM DS TABLET 10'S

How BACTRIM DS TABLET 10'S Works

• Bacteria have to make their own folate in order to build DNA and multiply. Sulphamethoxazole blocks the first step of that process, and trimethoprim blocks the step immediately after it.
• Blocking both steps has a stronger effect than either ingredient produces on its own, and it widens the range of bacteria the combination acts against.

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and a mild rash are the effects reported most often. Sunlight sensitivity is also reported, so skin that is exposed to strong sun can burn more easily during a course. A small number of reactions are serious and need urgent medical attention rather than a wait-and-see approach. A rash that spreads, blisters or peels, sores in the mouth, or swelling of the face or throat can signal a severe skin reaction. Fever with a sore throat, unusual bruising or bleeding, or marked weakness can signal a problem with the blood cells. Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine or severe abdominal pain can signal liver injury. Muscle weakness or an irregular heartbeat can signal a rise in blood potassium. Watery or bloody diarrhoea that starts during or after the course also needs assessment.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash
• Headache
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Sore or inflamed mouth or tongue

• If you miss a dose of Bactrim DS, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

• Store the strip at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Leave the tablets in the original strip until they are taken.

• Swallow each tablet whole with a full glass of water
• Drink fluids regularly through the course unless the doctor has advised otherwise
• Finish the full course even after the symptoms settle
• Tell the doctor about any past reaction to a sulfa medicine before the first dose
• Use sunscreen and cover up in strong sunlight, as the skin burns more easily during a course
• Report a spreading rash, mouth sores, blistering skin or a fever with sore throat without waiting
• Tell the pharmacist about blood thinners, water tablets, potassium supplements and methotrexate, as all of these interact

• The tablet can be taken with or without food. Taking it with a meal reduces nausea in people whose stomach is sensitive to it, and keeping to the same pattern each day gives steadier absorption.
• Fluid intake matters more than food. Water through the day helps the kidneys clear the medicine.
• Alcohol is best limited during the course, as it adds to nausea and dizziness and makes a new side effect harder to recognise.