Co-trimoxazole
Written By Dr. Lipika Khurana
Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev SharmaLast updated 25 Nov 2025 | 09:34 AM (UTC)
Co-trimoxazole Uses
Co-trimoxazole is used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is used to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, infections of urinary tract, ear and intestines.
How Co-trimoxazole works
Co-trimoxazole is an antibiotic. It stops the bacteria from producing folic acid, a nutrient required for bacterial multiplication.
Common side effects of Co-trimoxazole
Nausea, Vomiting, Skin rash, Allergic reaction
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Expert advice for Co-trimoxazole
- Your doctor has prescribed Co-trimoxazole to cure your infection and improve your symptoms.
- Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection to come back and harder to treat.
- Your doctor will ensure that you are well hydrated during treatment with this medicine.Â
- Your doctor may get regular blood, urine tests while you are on this medication.
- Do not take Co-trimoxazole if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Discontinue Co-trimoxazole and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.
Frequently asked questions for Co-trimoxazole
Inform your doctor if you don't feel better after finishing the full course of treatment. Also, inform him if your symptoms are getting worse while using this medicine.
No, do not stop taking Co-trimoxazole and complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cured.
Yes, the use of Co-trimoxazole can cause diarrhea. It is an antibiotic which kills the harmful bacteria. However, it also affects the helpful bacteria in your stomach or intestine and causes diarrhea. If diarrhea gets severe, talk to your doctor about it.
Usually, Co-trimoxazole starts working soon after taking it. However, it may take some days to kill all the harmful bacteria and make you feel better.