What is bactrim used for? 

Bactrim is an antibiotic that can be used for a variety of infections, but is typically used for: 

• Skin and soft tissue infection

• Osteoarticular infection 

• Urinary tract infection 

• Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP)

What are the most common side effects seen with bactrim? 

• Diarrhea 

• Nausea 

• Vomiting 

• Increasing bilirubin levels (bactrim should not commonly be used in patients less than 1 month of age without direct physician supervision)

Contraindications

Bactrim shouldn’t be taken if your child has had an anaphylactic reaction (hives or swelling of the tongue) to any sulfa drug (ex: furosemide, chlorothiazide, hydrochlorothiazide, metolazone, bumetanide, celecoxib).

Tips & Tricks to administer bactrim

If your child is having difficulty taking bactrim (liquid or tablets), it can be mixed in some foods or beverages. Please keep in mind that if a medication is mixed with food or drink, it should be taken immediately. The mixture should not be saved or consumed later.

Bactrim can be mixed with any food or beverage of the child’s preference. 

How to store bactrim

• Bactrim tablets and oral liquid should be stored at room temperature and protected from light. 

Breast feeding considerations 

• Bactrim can be present in breast milk if being taken by the mother. 

• Due to the risk of increasing bilirubin levels in neonates, taking bactrim while breastfeeding a child less than 1 month of age should be discussed with your physician. 

The information in this database regarding prescription drugs is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interaction or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. See disclaimer.