Information about Co-trimoxazole

Generic Name : Co-trimoxazole
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Co-trimoxazole are provided here.

Pronunciation : coe try mox' a zole

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Co-trimoxazole, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y41.8 Therapeutic Classification : Anti- Infectives

Trade Names/Brand Names of Co-trimoxazole

India :

More info >>>

International :

Bactrim, Bactrim DS, Septra, Septra DS, Sulfatrim

Why is Co-trimoxazole Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, prescribed for certain types bacterial infections. It is also used to treat traveler’s diarrhea. It eliminates bacteria that cause various infections.

When should Co-trimoxazole not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with anemia, hypersensitivity, during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

What is the dosage of Co-trimoxazole?

It is a fixed combination product containing sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in 5:1 ratio.
Adult- PO- The recommended dose is 2 tablets every 12 hours for a period of 10 to 14 days.
Child- The recommended dose is 8 mg/kg of trimethoprim and 40 mg/kg of sulfamethoxazole daily in 2 divided doses every 12 hours.

How should Co-trimoxazole be taken?

It comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Co-trimoxazole?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of liver or kidney disease, asthma, severe allergies, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency (an inherited blood disease), any allergy, who are taking other medications.

• Avoid exposure to sunlight.

What are the side effects of Co-trimoxazole?

Most Common - Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Blood - Decrease in blood cell counts.
Allergic - Skin inflammation, eruptions, rash, itching, redness, hives, bruising and photosensitivity.
Gastrointestinal - Liver inflammation/damage, jaundice, hepatic necrosis, elevation in liver enzymes, inflammation of intestine/pancreas/tongue, mouth ulcer, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Genitourinary - Kidney failure, Blood Urea Nitrogen and absence of urination.
Central Nervous System - Brain inflammation, convulsions, incoordination, fainting, ringing in the ear, headache, hallucinations, depression and nervousness.
Metabolic - Low blood sugar.
Musculoskeletal - Joint/muscle pain.
Respiratory - Cough, shortness of breath and lung infection.
Miscellaneous - Weakness, fatigue and sleeplessness.