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Bactrim Forte is a prescription drug that is used to treat urinary, respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Roche is responsible for the production of the drug. Bactrim Forte is available in the form of tablets (10 pieces) in a dose of 960 mg (800 mg of sulfamethoxazole and 160 mg of trimethoprim) or a syrup.
The active substance and action of Bactrim Forte
Bactrim Forte is a combined preparation that consists of two active substances: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. The 5: 1 mixture of these two active substances is also known as co-trimoxazole, which has a very broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. The mechanism of action of the above-mentioned active substances consists in inhibiting the activity of selected bacterial enzymes. However, the combination of these two substances enhances their bactericidal effect.
Application of Bactrim Forte
Bactrim Forte is used to treat infections caused by microorganisms sensitive to co-trimoxazole. It is used in treatment when co-trimoxazole is superior to treatment with single antibiotics. This is primarily about: respiratory tract infection (especially if chronic bronchitis is exacerbated), otitis media, urinary tract infection and soft ulcer, gastrointestinal infection, pneumonia caused by Pneumocystis carinii.
Contraindications to the use of Bactrim Forte
Certain diseases and the concurrent use of other drugs may contraindicate the use or change the dosage of the drug. Sometimes it is necessary to carry out a checkup beforehand. In case of any doubts or problems, please contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Bactrim Forte cannot be used if you are allergic or hypersensitive to any of its ingredients or if you suffer from severe kidney and liver failure. Before starting treatment, we should notify the doctor if we suffer from diseases such as: bronchial asthma and severe allergy, renal and hepatic dysfunction, severe hematological disorders, porphyria, thyroid dysfunction and other chronic diseases.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, driving and operating machinery
The use of any drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding must always be consulted with a physician who is able to assess the benefits and risks of taking a given drug. The use of Bactrim Forte is possible during pregnancy if your doctor recommends it. However, the drug should not be used in the last stage of pregnancy, as there is a risk of damage to the central nervous system. Bactrim Forte should not be used during breastfeeding. The use of the drug is prohibited in children under 6 weeks of age. Unfortunately, there are no data on the effect of Bactrim Forte on the ability to drive and use machines.
How should Bactrim Forte be dosed?
The dosage of the drug is determined only by a doctor or pharmacist. It is forbidden to exceed the recommended dose. In case of any doubts or problems, please contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Due to the fact that the preparation is in the form of tablets and syrup, a syrup is recommended for children under 12 years of age. Tablets are usually used in children over 12 years of age and adults.
Dosage for chronic bronchitis, otitis media, urinary tract infection and gastrointestinal infection:
- adults and children after the age of 12: 800 mg of sulfamethoxazole and 160 mg of trimethoprim every 12 hours. If the infection is severe, your doctor may increase the dose; children up to 12 years of age: 30 mg / kg body weight of sulfamethoxazole and 6 mg / kg body weight of trimethoprim daily in two divided doses.
Uncomplicated acute urinary tract inflammation in women:
- 1600-2400 mg of sulfamethoxazole and 320-480 mg of trimethoprim once daily (in the evening).
Venereal ulcer:
- 800 mg sulfamethoxazole and 160 mg trimethoprim twice daily.
Side effects
Every drug – including Bactrim Forte – can cause some side effects, but not every person can experience them. In the event of any problems, see a doctor immediately.
Examples of more common side effects include nausea, vomiting, skin allergic reactions, and abdominal pain.
Examples of rare side effects include diarrhea, stomatitis, hyperkalemia, hyponatraemia, hypoglycaemia, enteritis, pancreatitis, hepatitis, and haematological disorders.