Oral sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim

Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (aka Bactrim) is a combination sulfa antibacterial drug used to treat bacterial infections. Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, it is used off-label to treat acne.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

  • Do not take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Do not take if you have a known hypersensitivity reaction to sulfa drugs (sulfonamide) or trimethoprim.
  • Do not use if you have severe liver or kidney disease or anemia caused by folic acid deficiency.

HOW TO USE

  • Take as directed by your dermatology team.
  • This medication may be taken with or without food.

SIDE EFFECTS

  • The most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, mild itching and rash. Oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections can occur with prolonged use.
  • This drug may rarely cause a severe drug rash called Steven-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. You should stop this medication immediately if you develop sores in the eyes, mouth and genital area or a severe rash.

HOW TO STORE

  • Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
  • Store it at room temperature and away from light, excess heat, and moisture.