Generic Bactrim: Indications, Doses, Cost in Canada
Bactrim is a combination medication containing both trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, two antibiotics. It works against bacteria in the body by inhibiting their ability to synthesize proteins that are essential for survival. This ultimately leads to the death of the bacteria or slows down its growth rate.
Bactrim can be used to treat various types of bacterial infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, urinary tract infection, and traveler’s diarrhea among others.
The common side effects associated with Bactrim include vomiting, dyspepsia, loss of appetite, dizziness, headache and skin rashes. More serious adverse effects include liver damage and blood disorders like anemia or thrombocytopenia which can occur after long term use of this medication.
Cost of Generic and Brand in Canada
The cost of Bactrim in Canada may differ depending on if the brand-name or the generic form is being bought.
Brand-name Bactrim is a product made by Roche and is generally more expensive than the generic form. The cost of brand-name Bactrim can vary based on factors such as the dosage, quantity, and insurance coverage. For instance, a 30-day supply of brand-name Bactrim DS (double strength) tablets may cost approximately $80-$100 without insurance.
On the other hand, generic Bactrim is typically cheaper than the brand-name version. It is produced by various manufacturers and is available in both tablets and liquid form. The price of generic Bactrim may also vary based on factors such as the dosage, quantity, and insurance coverage. For example, a 30-day supply of generic Bactrim tablets may cost around $20-$30 without insurance.
It is important to bear in mind that the cost of Bactrim (both brand-name and generic) can vary depending on the retailer. Purchasing Bactrim at a retail pharmacy may result in a different price than buying it online, so it is recommended to compare costs and evaluate all available options prior to making a purchase.
Indications of Bactrim generic
Bactrim is an antibiotic medication used in treating a variety of infections. Below, we’ll provide an overview of the conditions for which Bactrim can be used, as well as information on its usage.
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is a type of infection commonly seen in people suffering from HIV/AIDS or those with weakened immune systems due to certain medications. Bactrim is highly effective in treating PCP, helping reduce the risk of complications and death associated with this condition.
Shigellosis
Shigellosis is an intestinal infection caused by the bacterium Shigella. Symptoms typically include severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever and nausea. Bactrim has been shown to be highly effective in treating shigellosis, with cure rates exceeding 90%. Therefore, it is often prescribed for people suffering from this infection.
Urinary Tract Infections
UTIs are one of the most common bacterial infections seen in adults and children alike. Bactrim has been shown to safely and effectively treat UTIs in both genders including lower UTI infections such as cystitis and upper UTI infections such as urethritis or pyelonephritis. In some cases, it may even help prevent further recurrences.
Usage
Bactrim should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider and should not be taken for longer periods than prescribed without a doctor’s permission. Additionally, any symptoms that worsen while taking this medication should be reported to a doctor immediately so they can adjust treatment accordingly if needed. Patients also need to remember to finish their full course of treatment even when they start feeling better, otherwise there’s a risk of developing drug-resistant bacteria which can complicate future treatments even further.
Bactrim Dosages
Understanding how to properly administer this medication is important in order to ensure its effectiveness and avoid any adverse effects or complications. Below, we’ll provide an overview of recommended dosages for adults, pediatric patients, and important administration instructions.
- Dosage in Adults. For the treatment of urinary tract infections, the recommended dosage for adults is one double-strength tablet (160/800 mg) twice daily or two single-strength tablets (80/400mg) four times per day. For more severe infections, a higher dosage may be necessary depending on the doctor’s recommendation.
- Pediatric Patients. For pediatric patients two months and older, the recommended dosage is 10mg/kg/day divided into two equal doses every 12 hours. For severe cases, a higher dosage may be necessary depending on the doctor’s recommendation.
Important Administration Instructions
- Bactrim should be taken with food or a full glass of water to avoid stomach upset.
- It is important to take this medication consistently at the same time each day until finished even if symptoms are gone or seem to have improved.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and other beverages that contain sulfites while taking this medication as it can interfere with absorption and reduce antibacterial activity.
Side Effects
Bactrim is a commonly prescribed medication for many types of bacterial infections. While it is generally safe and effective, it can have some adverse side effects. Depending on individual factors, people may experience various physical and psychological reactions to the drug. Below are some of the potential side effects associated with Bactrim use.
- Hematologic. The most common hematologic side effect from taking Bactrim is anemia, with symptoms including paleness, decreased energy levels, dizziness and shortness of breath. People using this medication may also develop difficulty clotting blood, resulting in frequent nosebleeds or other excessive bleeding.
- Allergic Reactions. Mild allergic reactions such as skin rashes or hives as well as facial swelling are common when taking Bactrim. Anaphylaxis is a much less likely but very serious allergic reaction that is marked by difficulty breathing and swelling below the necks; anyone with signs of anaphylaxis should seek medical attention immediately.
- Gastrointestinal. Nausea and vomiting may occur when taking Bactrim as well as abdominal pain or cramps. Diarrhea is another possible gastrointestinal side effect due to this medication; in some cases serious stomach problems can arise that require urgent medical attention.
- Genitourinary. Unpleasant changes in urination are a potential side effect of taking Bactrim which includes cloudy urine, or increased frequency of urination even when not drinking fluids. It’s important to be aware that unusual discoloration or discharge coming from your genitals could be indicative of a more serious problem brought on by this medication so make sure to consult your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms during treatment.
- Neurologic. Dizziness, headaches and confusion linked to Bactrim consumption could be indicators of neurotoxicity developing due to long term use according if accompanied by behavioral changes or vision disturbances then they should be immediately discussed with your healthcare provider regarding potentially dangerous consequences like seizures, hallucinations etc..
- Psychiatric. People taking may report feeling depressed even after short-term consumption which can lead eventually lead into more serious issues like suicidal thoughts if left untreated these shall require immediate psychological assistance along with discontinuation/alternation of dosage since such reactions might indicate underlying psychological conditions being aggravated instead of caused directly by Bactrim itself.
- Endocrine. Women taking Bactrim might experience menstrual irregularities while males develop genital itching & impotence necessitating hormonal investigation from physician.
Interactions of Bactrim Generic
While its effects can be beneficial in treating infections, there are many drug interactions associated with Bactrim that can result in different side effects or decreased efficacy if taken improperly.
Diuretics
Diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide can cause increased rates of excretion of Bactrim when taken together. This could lead to lower levels of the medication in the blood than desired and the potential for more frequent recurrence of infection symptoms. Because of this, these medications should be taken 12 hours apart if necessary.
- Warfarin. Bactrim may reduce the effectiveness of warfarin, potentially increasing bleeding risk by as much as 70%. In addition, taking warfarin with Bactrim may lead to increased drug levels in the bloodstream due to reduced elimination from the body.
- Phenytoin. When taking phenytoin with Bactrim there is a heightened risk for excessive sedation and slowed reflexes due to their combined pharmacological properties. In addition, long-term use may lead to reduced effectiveness of phenytoin and increased risk for seizures.
- Methotrexate. Taking methotrexate concurrently with Bactrim increases methotrexate concentrations in plasma leading to an increased risk for methotrexate’s toxicities including bone marrow suppression and organ failure.
- Cyclosporine. Cyclosporine should not be taken while using Bactrim due to enhanced side effects such as nephrotoxic reactions and neurotoxicity which can progress rapidly at higher doses.
- Digoxin. Digoxin concentrations tend to increase when taking digoxin with Bactrim, thus increasing likelihood of cardiovascular side effects associated with digoxin toxicity such as arrhythmias and conduction disturbances.
- Pyrimethamine. Pyrimethamine should not be administered simultaneously with Bactrim, since competition for renal tubular secretion between pyrimethamine and trimethoprin-sulfamethoxazole results in high serum concentration of both agents resulting in greater adverse reaction probability.
Warnings and Precautions
Although Bactrim may be effective in treating bacterial infections, a person should familiarize themselves with all the possible warnings and precautions associated with this medication before taking it. Below, we’ll summarize some of the potential risks posed by taking Bactrim, so that those considering this medication can make an informed health decision.
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Women who are pregnant should avoid taking Bactrim due to its potential risk of inducing fetal harm. Studies on animals have suggested that sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim may cause harm to developing embryos and fetuses, leading to teratogenic effects, including major malformations such as neural tube defects and skeletal abnormalities. Women must consult with their healthcare provider prior to using this medication if they are pregnant.
Hypersensitivity and Other Fatal Reactions
People allergic or hypersensitive to sulfonamides (an ingredient in Bactrim) should not take this drug due its risk of triggering severe allergic reactions such as rash, hives, itching and difficulty breathing. In addition, fatal reactions have also been reported following administration of Bactrim; thus people should be monitored for signs or symptoms for untoward reactions during treatment with this drug.
Thrombocytopenia
Taking Bactrim may lead to a decrease in platelets in the circulation which increases the risk of bleeding complications; thus periodic examination of blood count must be monitored during treatment with Bactrim. Patients at serious risk from platelet decreases due to underlying medical conditions may require supplemental doses of platelets or other supportive treatments if needed.
Streptococcal Infections and Rheumatic Fever
Although uncommon, there is a risk that patients treated with Bactrim may develop rheumatic fever. Thus sufficient coverage must be provided against streptococcal infection while using this medication. Close monitoring for signs/symptoms suggestive of rheumatic fever is recommended during treatment with Bactrim.
Disclaimer: The content on this page is provided solely for educational purposes. Please be aware that the information provided here is not intended as direct medical guidance for treatment; only a board-certified healthcare professional can prescribe medications. Ignoring medical advice from your doctor can lead to serious health risks. We urge users to approach this information with discretion.