Septrin Tablets
Septrin Tablets Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Septrin Tablets is a brand name. Its generic name is Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim.
Introduction
Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim (Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim) is an antibiotic combination used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It consists of two ingredients: Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim. Sulfamethoxazole is an antibacterial medicine of the sulfonamide group and Trimethoprim is an antibacterial medicine of the antibiotic group. Together they act as an effective antibiotic that works by disrupting the production of essential proteins in the bacterial cell, eventually leading to the destruction of the microbial cell.Uses For
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, bronchitis, middle ear infections, and infections of the lungs, skin, and intestine. It is also used to treat infections caused by Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea.Mechanism of Action
Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim both exhibit some antibiotic activity, however, their combination is more effective as an antibiotic. Sulfamethoxazole interferes with the bacterial cell's ability to produce folic acid (a necessary element for forming bacterial proteins). Trimethoprim blocks the uptake of folic acid into the cell, ultimately preventing it from producing the proteins it needs to survive.How Long Does It Take To Work?
The time it takes for Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim to start working depends on the specific bacterial infection it is being used to treat. Typically, the effects of the medication can begin to be felt in as little as 48-72 hours, however it may take longer for the symptoms to completely resolve.Absorption
The absorption of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is not completely understood, however it seems to be moderately and widely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.Route of Elimination
When taken as directed, Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is eliminated from the body by the kidneys.Dosage
The recommended dosage for Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim depends on the severity of the infection being treated. For oral administration, the usual dose is 1 tablet every 12 hours for adults. The dosage for children depends on the child’s age, weight and the severity of the infection. For injection, the usual dose is 1 – 2 ml every 12 hours or 4 – 8 ml every 8 hours.Administration
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim can be taken orally or through injection. When taken orally, it can be taken either with or without food. When taken through injection, it must be administered by a qualified healthcare professional.Side Effect
Common side effects of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash, headache, dizziness and drowsiness.Toxicity
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim can be toxic if taken in large doses for prolonged periods of time. Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, fever, hypotension, rash, seizures, and even coma.Precautions
Patients taking Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim should inform their healthcare provider if they have any allergies, if they are pregnant or breastfeeding, if they have any liver or kidney disease, or if they have a history of certain blood disorders.Interactions
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim can interact with other medications, such as antacids, diuretics, anti-seizure medications and antibiotics. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any other medications they are taking prior to taking Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim.Disease Interactions
Patients taking Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim should avoid direct exposure to sunlight or UV radiation. They should also inform their healthcare provider if they have any pre-existing diseases such as lupus, diabetes or anemia.Drug Interactions
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim may interact with other medications, such as corticosteroids, phenytoin, warfarin, methotrexate, and certain antiviral medications. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medications they are taking prior to taking Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim.Food Interactions
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim may interact with certain foods such as dairy products, citrus fruits, and alcohol. Patients are advised to avoid these foods while taking Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim.Pregnancy Use
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is classified as pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim will harm an unborn baby. Pregnant women should inform their healthcare provider prior to taking this medication.Lactation Use
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is not recommended for use by breastfeeding mothers.Acute Overdose
If an overdose of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. The likely symptoms of an overdose are nausea, vomiting, fever, hypotension, rash, seizures, and even coma.Contraindications
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to either component of the drug or to other sulfonamides.Use Direction
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Patients should not take more of the medication than is prescribed, and should not take the medication for longer than is recommended.Storage Condition
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim should be stored at room temperature in a tightly sealed container, away from heat and light.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is not known.Half Life
The half-life of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is approximately 8 hours in adults.Clearance
The clearance of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim is renal, meaning that it is eliminated from the body by the kidneys.Here you find in details version of Septrin Tablets
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Septrin Tablets
What is Septrin Tablets?
Septrin Tablets is a combination of two antibiotics used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is sold under the brand names Bactrim, Septra, and Sulfatrim.
Are Septrin Tablets antibiotics?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is a combination of two antibiotics used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.
What kind of infections does Septrin Tablets treat?
Septrin Tablets is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, sinus infections and ear infections.
What are the side effects of Septrin Tablets?
Common side effects of Septrin Tablets include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, headache, and drowsiness. More serious side effects include severe allergic reactions and anemia.
Is Septrin Tablets safe to take during pregnancy?
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), Septrin Tablets is generally considered safe to take during pregnancy, but you should always consult your doctor before starting any new medication while pregnant.
Can I become resistant to Septrin Tablets?
Yes, taking Septrin Tablets may result in bacterial resistance, especially if the medication is used incorrectly or taken for too long. To avoid this, it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and to not stop taking it early, even if you start to feel better.
Can Septrin Tablets interact with other medications?
Yes, Septrin Tablets can interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins or supplements you are taking before starting Septrin Tablets.
Is Septrin Tablets available over the counter?
No, Septrin Tablets is a prescription medication and is not available over the counter.
What should I avoid while taking Septrin Tablets?
It is important to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Septrin Tablets, as it may increase the risk of side effects. It is also important to avoid taking other medications without consulting your doctor, as some medications may interact with Septrin Tablets.
Can children take Septrin Tablets?
Yes, children can take Septrin Tablets, although this should be discussed with a doctor. Children may be more prone to side effects, so it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with Septrin Tablets in younger patients.
How long does it take for Septrin Tablets to work?
Septrin Tablets typically begins to work within 1-2 days after starting the medication, although it may take longer for symptoms to completely resolve. It is important to take the medication for the entire duration prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better.
Can I take Septrin Tablets with food?
Yes, Septrin Tablets can be taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset. If you experience any stomach upset, you may want to take this medication with food or a meal replacement to reduce the risk of these side effects.
How long does it take for Septrin Tablets to leave your system?
The half-life of Septrin Tablets is around 11 hours, so it should typically take around 1-2 days for the medication to completely leave the system.
What is the best way to take Septrin Tablets?
The best way to take Septrin Tablets is as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and to not stop taking it early, even if you start to feel better.
How should Septrin Tablets be stored?
Septrin Tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and light. It should be stored in its original container and away from pets and children.
Can I take other medications with Septrin Tablets?
Yes, you can take other medications with Septrin Tablets, as long as your doctor is aware of all medications you are taking. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins or supplements you are taking before starting Septrin Tablets.
Does Septrin Tablets cause drowsiness?
Yes, Septrin Tablets may cause drowsiness. It is important to avoid driving or operating machinery while taking this medication, as it may impair your ability to react quickly.
What happens if I miss a dose of Septrin Tablets?
If you miss a dose of Septrin Tablets, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time.
Can I take Septrin Tablets for a long period of time?
Yes, Septrin Tablets can be taken for a long period of time, but you should always consult your doctor first. Taking Septrin Tablets for too long may increase the risk of developing bacterial resistance.
Can I take Septrin Tablets if I have kidney problems?
Yes, you may be able to take Septrin Tablets if you have kidney problems, but you should always consult your doctor first. Your doctor may adjust your dose or choose an alternate medication depending on your kidney function.
Who should not take Septrin Tablets?
Septrin Tablets should not be taken by those who are allergic to sulfa medications or have a history of anemia. It should also be avoided by those with severe kidney or liver disease and by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Can I take Septrin Tablets if I am allergic to penicillin?
Yes, you can take Septrin Tablets if you are allergic to penicillin, as it is a different type of antibiotic. However, it is still important to tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications, including penicillin.
Is Septrin Tablets only used to treat bacterial infections?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is only used to treat bacterial infections. It is not effective against viral infections, and should not be taken for illnesses caused by viruses.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Septrin Tablets?
If you experience an allergic reaction to Septrin Tablets, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rash, hives, or itching.
Does Septrin Tablets treat sinus infections?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is often used to treat sinus infections.
Can Septrin Tablets help treat ear infections?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is often used to treat ear infections.
Can Septrin Tablets treat a bladder infection?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is often used to treat bladder infections.
Does Septrin Tablets treat bronchitis?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is often used to treat bronchitis.
Can Septrin Tablets help treat pneumonia?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is often used to treat pneumonia.
Can Septrin Tablets cure bacterial infections?
Yes, Septrin Tablets can help to cure bacterial infections, as long as it is taken correctly and for the entire duration prescribed by your doctor.
How should I take Septrin Tablets?
Septrin Tablets should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take the medication exactly as directed and to not stop taking it early, even if you start to feel better.
What time of day should I take Septrin Tablets?
Septrin Tablets should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, it should be taken once or twice daily, as directed by your doctor.
Are there any long-term effects from taking Septrin Tablets?
Long-term use of Septrin Tablets may increase the risk of developing anemia or bacterial resistance. To reduce the risk of these effects, it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and not take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
Can I take pain medications with Septrin Tablets?
Yes, you can take pain medications with Septrin Tablets, as long as your doctor is aware of all medications you are taking. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins or supplements you are taking before starting Septrin Tablets.
Does Septrin Tablets interact with birth control?
Yes, Septrin Tablets can interact with some types of birth control. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins or supplements you are taking before starting Septrin Tablets.
Can Septrin Tablets be used to treat urinary tract infections?
Yes, Septrin Tablets is often used to treat urinary tract infections.