Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim prescription pickup for bacterial infections

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, UTIs (urinary tract infections), middle ear infections (otitis media), bronchitis, traveler's diarrhea, and shigellosis (bacillary dysentery). It is a combination medication composed of two antibiotics: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. This medication works by preventing bacteria from reproducing, allowing the body's defense system to fight the infection.

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is available under the brand names Bactrim, Septra, and Sulfatrim. It comes in the form of a tablet and a suspension to take by mouth.

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is used to treat bacterial infections, including pneumonia, UTIs (urinary tract infections), middle ear infections (otitis media), bronchitis, traveler's diarrhea, and shigellosis (bacillary dysentery).

It is important to only use antibiotics like sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim when prescribed, as taking antibiotics when they are not needed can increase your chance of creating an antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Remember that antibiotics like sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections such as the cold or flu.

The most common side effects of sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (generic Bactrim) include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim:

• rash
  
• itching
  
• sore throat
  
• fever or chills
  
• severe diarrhea (watery or bloody stools) that may occur with or without fever and stomach cramps (may occur up to 2 months or more after your treatment)
  
• shortness of breath
  
• cough
  
• unusual bruising or bleeding
  
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
  
• paleness
  
• red or purple skin discolorations
  
• joint or muscle pain
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects. Call your health care provider if symptoms are persistent or severe.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects or life-threatening allergic reactions. Drug interactions can occur with other antibiotics, blood thinners such as warfarin, certain retinoids, penicillin, and proton pump inhibitors among others.

If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), be sure to tell your doctor; sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim chewable tablets are sweetened with aspartame, which can be extremely dangerous to patients with PKU.

Sulfonamide antibiotics can cause folate deficiencies (they prevent certain cells from creating folic acid), so be sure to talk to your doctor if you’ve ever had low folic acid levels.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is available as a tablet and a suspension to take by mouth. It is typically taken 2-4 times per day depending on your diagnosis. The exact dosage will vary depending on the age of the patient and their body weight. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

To prevent bacterial resistance to antibiotics, you should continue taking the sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not skip doses or stop taking the sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is currently only available via prescription. This means a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you or order the medication to be delivered to your door for just $5. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.