Septra DS

Septra DS Ingredients: Co-trimoxazole Oral
Representative Names: Bactrim DS, Bactrim Oral, Bethaprim, Cotrim DS, Cotrim Oral, Septra DS, Septra Oral, Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim, Sulfatrim Oral
Generic Available ? Yes

Who is Septra DS for ?

Co-trimoxazole is a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, a "sulfa" drug. It eliminates bacteria that cause various infections, including infections of the urinary tract, lungs (pneumonia), ears, and intestines. It also is used to treat "travelers' diarrhea." Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How does it work ?

Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is a sulfonamide (“sulfa”) antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Bacterial cells produce folic acid, a chemical necessary for their growth. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole interferes with the enzyme that helps form folic acid. The lack of folic acid subsequently kills the bacteria.

When should I be careful taking Septra DS ?

Before taking co-trimoxazole,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to co-trimoxazole, diuretics ("water pills"), oral diabetes medications, any sulfa drug, or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially methotrexate, phenytoin (Dilantin), warfarin (Coumadin), and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, asthma, severe allergies, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency (an inherited blood disease).
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking co-trimoxazole, call your doctor.
plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Co-trimoxazole may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.

Side Effects

Although side effects from co-trimoxazole are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

upset stomach
vomiting
loss of appetite

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

skin rash
itching
sore throat
fever or chills
mouth sores
unusual bruising or bleeding
yellowing of the skin or eyes
paleness
joint aches