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Bactrim

Bactrim

Sulfamethoxazole · Trimethoprim

A sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim combination for urinary tract infections and pneumocystis pneumonia. Each ingredient blocks a different step in the same pathway.

Category
Antibiotics
Active ingredients
Sulfamethoxazole · Trimethoprim
Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet
Strengths
400mg + 80mg · 800mg + 160mg

Bactrim is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.

No prescription needed: we place your order for Bactrim on your behalf.

Alternative names
sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim
Therapeutic class
Folate Synthesis Inhibitor Combination
Pharmacological class
Sulfonamide Antibacterial
Known off-label uses
toxoplasmosis
Minor side effects
nausea; vomiting; decreased appetite
Moderate side effects
mild rash; pruritus; headache
Dosage forms
Tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Originator
Roche
Onset Time
1–2 hours
Duration
12 hours
Storage instructions
Store below 25°C.
Drug interactions
Warfarin; Methotrexate; Phenytoin
Age restrictions
Approved for infants over two months of age, children, and adults.
Contraindications

megaloblastic anaemia due to folate deficiency; severe renal impairment; infants under two months

Serious side effects

agranulocytosis, requires immediate medical attention; Stevens-Johnson syndrome, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

A sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim combination for urinary tract infections and pneumocystis pneumonia. Each ingredient blocks a different step in the same pathway.

Mechanism of action

Cooperatively blocks sequential steps of bacterial tetrahydrofolic acid synthesis, preventing cellular reproduction.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Interferes with folate metabolism. High risk. Avoid during pregnancy. Breastfeeding: Not recommended.

Is the Bactrim on Direct Meds a generic?

Yes, you receive a generic. Bactrim is the original brand, made by Roche, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine; the generic has the same active ingredients (sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim) at the strength you choose. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.

How much does Bactrim cost in South Africa?

Bactrim comes in 400mg + 80mg and 800mg + 160mg strengths, in packs of 60 to 360 tablets, and the price of every option is shown above in rand, converted from US dollars. Larger packs cost less per tablet.

Payment and prices →

What other names is Bactrim sold under?

Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are also known as co-trimoxazole.

What is Bactrim used for?

Bactrim contains sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, used for urinary tract infections, pneumocystis pneumonia and shigellosis.

How quickly does Bactrim work?

Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim usually start to work within 1 to 2 hours, and their effect lasts about 12 hours. This varies from person to person.

Does Bactrim have side effects?

Yes. The common side effects of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are nausea, vomiting and decreased appetite. Less common ones include mild rash, itching (pruritus) and headache. Serious but less common side effects include agranulocytosis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which need urgent medical attention.

Which medicines interact with Bactrim?

Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim can interact with warfarin, methotrexate and phenytoin. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before you start taking Bactrim.

Can I buy Bactrim over the counter in South Africa?

Online, yes: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Bactrim. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.

Ordering without a prescription →

Can I buy Bactrim online in 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 →

What you will receive

Bactrim names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.

  • A generic containing Sulfamethoxazole / Trimethoprim at the strength you pick.
  • Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
  • Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.

How we compare medicine brands and generics