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Septra |
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What is Septra and why is it prescribed? Septra is an antibacterial combination drug prescribed for the treatment of certain urinary tract infections, severe middle ear infections in children, long-lasting or frequently recurring bronchitis in adults that has increased in seriousness, inflammation of the intestine due to a severe bacterial infection, and travelers' diarrhea in adults. Septra is also prescribed for the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, and for prevention of this type of pneumonia in people with weakened immune systems. Sulfamethoxazole, an ingredient in Septra, is one of a group of drugs called sulfonamides, which prevent the growth of bacteria in the body. Rare but sometimes fatal reactions have occurred with use of sulfonamides. These reactions include Stevens-Johnson syndrome, progressive disintegration of the outer layer of the skin, sudden and severe liver damage, a severe blood disorder, and a lack of red and white blood cells because of a bone marrow disorder. Notify your doctor at the first sign of an adverse reaction such as skin rash, sore throat, fever, joint pain, cough, shortness of breath, abnormal skin paleness, reddish or purplish skin spots, or yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. Frequent blood counts by a doctor are recommended for patients taking sulfonamide drugs. How should you take Septra? Follow your doctors directions for taking Septra. It is important that you drink plenty of fluids while taking Septra in order to prevent sediment in the urine and the formation of stones. Septra works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. Try not to miss any doses. It is best to take doses at evenly spaced times day and night. If you are taking Septra suspension, ask your pharmacist for a specially marked measuring spoon that delivers accurate doses. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Septra tablets and suspension at room temperature and protect from light. Keep the tablets in a dry place. Protect the suspension from freezing. Are there any Septra side effects? Septra side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Septra side effects may include hives, lack or loss of appetite, nausea, skin rash, and vomiting. Less common or rare Septra side effects may include abdominal pain, allergic reactions, anemia, chills, convulsions, depression, diarrhea, eye irritation, fatigue, fever, hallucinations, headache, hepatitis, inability to fall or stay asleep, inability to urinate, increased urination, inflammation of heart muscle, inflammation of the mouth and/or tongue, itching, joint pain, kidney failure, lack of feeling or concern, lack of muscle coordination, loss of appetite, low blood sugar, meningitis, muscle pain, nausea, nervousness, red, raised rash, redness and swelling of the tongue, ringing in the ears, scaling of dead skin due to inflammation, sensitivity to light, severe skin welts or swelling, skin eruptions, skin peeling, vertigo, weakness, and yellowing of eyes and skin. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Septra? If Septra is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Septra with Amantadine (Symmetrel), Blood thinners (such as Coumadin), Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), Digoxin (Lanoxin), Indomethacin (Indocin), Methotrexate (Rheumatrex), Oral diabetes medications (such as Micronase and Glucotrol), Pyrimethamine (Daraprim), Seizure medications (such as Dilantin), Tricyclic antidepressants (such as Elavil, Norpramin, Sinequan, and Tofranil), or Water pills (such as HydroDIURIL). Are there any special warnings about Septra? Make sure your doctor knows if you have impaired kidney or liver function, have a folic acid deficiency, are a chronic alcoholic, are taking anticonvulsants, have been diagnosed as having malabsorption syndrome, are in a state of poor nutrition, or have severe allergies or bronchial asthma. Septra should be used cautiously under these conditions. If you develop severe diarrhea, call your doctor. Septra can cause a serious intestinal inflammation. If you have AIDS and are taking Septra to treat or prevent Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, you will experience more side effects than will someone without AIDS. |
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