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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (Bactrim DS, Septra, Septra DS, SMZ-TMP DS, Sulfatrim Pediatric)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to sulfamethoxazole or trimethoprim, if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, or if you have anemia (lack of red blood cells) caused by folic acid deficiency.

To make sure you can safely take sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• kidney or liver disease;
• a folic acid deficiency;
• asthma or severe allergies;
• AIDS;
• a glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD deficiency); or
• if you are malnourished.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medication to a child younger than 2 months old.

Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from this medicine.

How should I take sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (Bactrim DS, Septra, Septra DS, SMZ-TMP DS, Sulfatrim Pediatric)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent kidney stones while you are taking trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.

Store the tablets and liquid at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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