Sulfamethoxazole is a sulfonamide antibacterial antibiotic that can be used for a variety of bacterial infection.
Trimethoprim
is a powerful antimicrobial that acts in synergy with sulfamethoxazole. Co-trimoxazole is also known as
Bactrim
Septra and Cotrim. Sulfamethoxazole comes in several forms including tablets, liquid suspensions and injection solutions.
Sulfamethoxazole: Uses and Applications
Sulfamethoxazole can be prescribed to treat bacterial infections like urinary tract infection, bronchitis and traveler’s diarrhea. Also,
It Is
used for skin infections that are caused by Staphylococcus austis and Streptococcus poyogenes. It has also been used for respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and pneumonia, as well as some sexually transmitted infections (STDs). Sulfamethoxazole has shown to be effective in treating a number of illnesses, including sinusitis and pharyngitis. This drug is commonly used as a prophylaxis to prevent recurrent infections of the urinary system.
Sulfamethoxazole: What are the Benefits?
Sulfamethoxazole's primary advantage is that it can treat infections caused by bacteria. It has also been shown to have a positive effect on certain protozoal infection, including those caused by Giardia Lamblia or Entamoeba Histolytica. It has also been shown to reduce the severity and frequency of viral infections such as Herpes Simplex Virus. It has also been used in the treatment of pneumocystis pneumonia carinii, a common pneumonia seen among HIV/AIDS sufferers. Sulfamethoxazole has been
reported
to be well tolerated, and there are few side effects. The drug is widely available and relatively cheap.
Sulfamethoxazole Side Effects
Sulfamethoxazole, although generally well tolerated and safe, can have a variety of adverse effects. Some of these side effects include nausea, vomiting headaches, dizziness and rash. It can also lead to anemia, thrombocytopenia and leukopenia in rare cases. Sulfamethoxazole can interact with other drugs and increase certain side effects. It is therefore important that you discuss potential drug interactions with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Sulfamethoxazole: Experts' Opinions
Most experts agree that sulfamethoxazole can be an effective treatment for a wide range of bacterial infection. They caution, however, that sulfamethoxazole should not be prescribed as the first line of therapy. It should be only used when other antibiotics have failed. Experts also advise caution when prescribing sulfamethoxazole to patients that are elderly, pregnant or breastfeeding. These groups could be more susceptible than others to adverse effects.
Sulfamethoxazole: How to Get Started
It is very important that you follow the instructions of your doctor when taking sulfamethoxazole. Adults usually take one or two tablet twice daily. The dosage for children will vary depending on the child's age and weight. Sulfamethoxazole comes in both tablet and liquid form. You can buy it at any pharmacy and online.
What are the side effects of a dietary supplement?
It is vital to know the potential side effects of any drug. Sulfamethoxazole can cause nausea, vomiting headaches, dizziness and rashes. Anemia, leukopenia and nephrotoxicity are more serious side effects. Sulfamethoxazole can also interact with medications such as
Methotrexate
and
Phenytoin
. It is therefore important that you discuss potential drug interactions with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Conclusion
Sulfamethoxazole, in conclusion, is an antibiotic that works well for a wide range of infections. The drug is well tolerated, and there are few
reported
serious side effects. It is vital to talk with your doctor about any possible interactions before beginning treatment. Sulfamethoxazole, when used properly, can treat many bacterial infections as well as reduce the severity certain viral infections..