Antibiotics sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (SMX-TMP / TMP-SMX) are active ingredients of Bactrim, Bactrim IV, Bactrim double strength (DS), Bactrim PED (for children), Septra, Septra DS, SMZ-TMP DS and Sulfatrim Pediatric. Even generic tablets of the antibiotics are sold in the market. Since Bactrim is used as the first or second-line antibiotic for sinusitis, the drug may be referred to as Bactrim-sinusitis. Other indications for SMX-TMP include traveler’s diarrhea, bronchitis, middle ear infection and urinary tract infection.

SMX-TMP is also referred to as co-trimoxizole. Sulfamethoxazole is tasteless odorless white compound. Trimethoprim is bitter odorless white-yellow color compound. Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are active against aerobic gram-positive microorganisms, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, and aerobic gram-negative microorganisms, including Haemophilus influenzae. Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim work together to block the processes used by bacteria to produce folic acid. The bacteria cannot survive without sufficient amount of the acid. By inhibiting metabolism of folic acid, SMX-TMP protects against bacteria.

The patients suffering from anemia because of low folic acid, severe kidney or liver disorders and porphyria should not take SMX-TMP. If you are allergic to compounds of the sulfa antibiotic group, such as SMX and TMP, do not take the medicine. Keep yourself hydrated if you are taking SMX-TMP to reduce chances of kidney stone.

United Research Laboratories (URL) / Mutual Pharmaceutical Company offers NDA (New Drug Application) Bactrim products approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The Bactrim™ DS and Bactrim™ tablets are rated as AB. AR Scientific, Inc., a marketing agent of URL, markets Bactrim™, a line of prescription medicines. However, Hoffmann-La Roche, Inc. owns trademarks Bactrim and Bactrim DS. 

Bactrim reduces growth of drug-resistant bacteria. The synthetic antibacterial formulation thus prevents and / or treats bacteria-caused infections. Moreover, several research studies appraising use of antibiotics in sinusitis treatment showed that Bactrim-sinusitis relives the symptoms of mild sinusitis. Bactrim is cheaper than amoxicillin. If you are allergic to penicillin, the physician may prescribe Bactrim. The rare side effects of Bactrim include Stevens-Johnson syndrome and skin problems.  

Inactive ingredients of Bactrim are pregelatinized starch, magnesium stearate, sodium starch glycolate, sodium benzoate and Docusate sodium. Absorption of orally administered Bactrim is quick. Both the main compounds are excreted through the kidneys. Take the drug with fluids: water, milk… The common side effects of the medicine include breathing problems, stomach upset, vomiting and headache. If side effects appear, contact your physician immediately.

Septra is a registered trademark of GlaxoSmithKline, Inc. (GSK). Both Septra and Septra DS are indicated for bacteria caused infections. Septra is available in oral suspensions and tablet forms.