Have you been prescribed this medicine too? Let's talk about Sulfamethoxazole; Trimethoprim (Co-trimoxazole)

Did the doctor prescribe this medicine for you too? Maybe it was for a urinary tract infection, or a chest infection. This is a very useful medicine that is given to many people. But there are some important things we need to know when using it. Let's talk about it clearly, without any fear or doubt.

What kind of medicine is this?

Simply put, this is an antibiotic . That is, a medicine that is given to cure bacterial infections in our body. It actually contains two types of drugs. They are `Sulfamethoxazole` and `Trimethoprim`. Think of it like two special forces teams of the police coming together to catch a criminal (i.e. bacteria). When these two come together, they work very effectively against bacteria.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is very important that your doctor knows your complete medical history before prescribing this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions listed below.

• Allergies to Sulfa Medications: This is very important if you have ever had an allergy to a Sulfa medication. Also, tell your doctor if you have any allergies to this medication or any other medications, foods, or dyes.
• Kidney disease: If there is any weakness in the kidneys.
• Liver disease: If there are problems with liver function.
• Pregnancy or trying to get pregnant: If you are pregnant or are expecting to become pregnant soon.
• Being a breastfeeding mother: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding a child.
• Blood diseases: If you have conditions such as low red blood cell count (anemia) or low platelet count.
• G6PD deficiency: This is also a genetic condition related to blood.
• Other medical conditions: Conditions such as HIV or AIDS, malnutrition, thyroid disease, or colitis.

How should I use the medicine?

This is very simple, but it must be followed exactly.

1. Take with a glass of water: Take the pill with a glass of water. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is very good for the body.

2. Take it at the right time: Take your medicine at the right intervals as prescribed by your doctor. For example, if it says 12 hours apart, try to take it at that time.

3. Complete the course: This is the most important thing . Even if you feel a little better and are feeling better now, take the medicine for the number of days your doctor prescribed, until you finish it. If you stop, the infection may come back.

4. If given to children: This medicine is sometimes prescribed for children over 2 months of age. But there must be special reasons for that. Therefore, give it to children only as directed by the doctor.

5. Overdose: If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What if I miss a dose of medicine?

Oh, that's okay. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.

Other things that may interact with this medicine

When you take this medicine, it is very important to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking, as some medications may interact with it.

Things to be careful about when taking medicine

• Sun sensitivity: Your skin may be a little sensitive to sunlight while taking this medicine. Therefore, avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. If you are going outside, wear clothing that covers your body, wear sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
• Severe skin reactions: This is very important . Severe skin reactions can occur even after a few weeks of using this medicine. If you have a fever, body aches, and red or purple skin rash that later turns into blisters and starts peeling, tell your doctor right away . Also, if you have a rash with swelling of the face, lips, or a rash on the neck or armpits, it is a serious sign.
• Diarrhea: If you have severe, watery diarrhea that lasts for more than two days, do not self-medicate with over-the-counter medication. Talk to your doctor.
• Brushing your teeth: Some people may experience a slight increase in bleeding while taking this medication. So be careful when brushing and flossing your teeth. If you are going to have any dental treatment, tell your dentist that you are taking this medication.

What are the side effects?

Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people, but not everyone does.

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