Sulfamethoxazole
Sulfamethoxazole is the sulfonamide component of Bactrim, a combination antibiotic with trimethoprim used for Urinary Tract Infections and Pneumocystis Pneumonia. Bactrim comes in two combination strengths: 400 mg plus 80 mg and 800 mg plus 160 mg.
Medicine containing Sulfamethoxazole
Key points
- Life-threatening skin reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported with co-trimoxazole; if these occur, the medicine must never be restarted.
- Bactrim is contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy and should be avoided in the second and third trimesters unless clinically necessary, as both components cross the placenta.
- Beyond urinary tract infections and pneumocystis pneumonia, Bactrim is also listed for shigellosis, a bacterial bowel infection.
How does Sulfamethoxazole work?
In Bactrim, sulfamethoxazole interferes with a step in bacterial folate synthesis, and trimethoprim blocks the next step in the same pathway. Together they stop bacteria from producing the folate needed to grow and multiply. Antibiotics like co-trimoxazole will not work against viruses.
Further reading
FAQ
In which products can I find sulfamethoxazole?
On Direct Meds, sulfamethoxazole comes as Bactrim. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How is sulfamethoxazole priced?
Compare the price of each product, strength and pack above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Can I buy sulfamethoxazole over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order sulfamethoxazole. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver sulfamethoxazole to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →Last updated