Bactrim is a combination of two antibiotics called sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. These medications are used to treat a number of different bacterial infections. Bactrim can be purchased as an antibiotic in pill form over-the-counter (OTC) or with a prescription from your doctor.
There are some situations where you may need a prescription to purchase Bactrim, such as if you’re allergic to any of its ingredients or you have kidney issues. Read on for more information about when you can get bactrim and whether or not it’s safe to take OTC.
Table of Contents
What is Bactrim?
Bactrim is a combination antibiotic consisting of two drugs: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. Sulfamethoxazole is also found in another commonly prescribed antibiotic, Septra, while trimethoprim is used as an antibiotic alone in certain cases.
Bactrim is used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, deep tissue infections, and infections of the lungs, skin, and ears. Bactrim can be purchased as an antibiotic in pill form over-the-counter (OTC) or with a prescription from your doctor.
Bactrim may also be used to prevent bacterial infections in people who are at high risk of developing infections, such as those with HIV. Bactrim can also be used to treat malaria and prevent travelers’ diarrhea. Bactrim is a combination drug that contains two antibiotics, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. The two antibiotics act against different types of bacteria.
How does Bactrim work?
Bactrim works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria. It does so by inhibiting folic acid metabolism (or folate) in the bacteria. It also inhibits the production of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), preventing the bacteria from replicating.
Sulfamethoxazole works to inhibit folic acid metabolism in the spleen, liver, and kidneys of bacteria. Trimethoprim is found in higher concentrations in the intestines of bacteria and works to inhibit folic acid metabolism there.
Bactrim is a combination drug that contains two different antibiotics. The combination of these two antibiotics works against different types of bacteria.
When can you get bactrim without a prescription?
Generally, Bactrim is available OTC for kids between 1 and 11, as well as those who are allergic to penicillin (though you should check with your doctor first).
Bactrim can also be purchased with a prescription if you’re at high risk of getting bacterial infections, such as if you have HIV, are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Is it safe to take Bactrim OTC?
Yes, Bactrim is generally safe to take as an antibiotic OTC. However, like all medications, there are some possible side effects you should watch out for. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, rash and itching.
You should also watch out for symptoms of severe allergic reactions, including difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face and tongue. If any of these symptoms appear, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Bactrim is generally safe to take as an antibiotic OTC, and there are no restrictions on who can purchase it. However, you should check with your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you to take Bactrim.
When do you need a prescription for Bactrim?
If you have kidney issues, are allergic to any of Bactrim’s ingredients, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may need a prescription to purchase Bactrim.
You may also need a prescription if you have a medical condition that makes you more susceptible to an infection or if you’re taking other medications that interact negatively with Bactrim.
If you’re at risk of bacterial infections, your doctor may prescribe Bactrim and other medications as part of your treatment. People with HIV are at high risk of bacterial infections and may be prescribed Bactrim, as well as other medications.
Tips for Using Bactrim Safely
- Avoid taking Bactrim if you have kidney issues, are allergic to any of Bactrim’s ingredients, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Take Bactrim exactly as prescribed.
- Do not stop taking Bactrim without first talking to your doctor. Stopping Bactrim too soon may result in a relapse of the bacterial infection.
- Do not take Bactrim if you’re taking other medications that interact negatively with it.
- Do not take Bactrim if you have a history of blood clots, heart disease, liver or kidney issues.
- If you experience any side effects from taking Bactrim, contact your doctor.
- Do not use Bactrim to treat simple colds or flu. It’s not effective against viral infections.
Final Words
Bactrim is a combination antibiotic that can be purchased either with a prescription or over-the-counter. It can be used to treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, deep tissue infections, and infections of the lungs, skin, and ears.
Bactrim may also be used to prevent bacterial infections in people who are at high risk of developing infections, such as those with HIV.
You can get Bactrim with a prescription or without one, depending on your situation and which type of Bactrim you need. It’s important to follow the instructions for taking Bactrim exactly as prescribed to avoid any potential side effects.
