Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet belongs to the group of medicines called ‘antibiotics’ used to treat various bacterial infections of the urinary tract, respiratory tract (bronchitis), ear (otitis media), lungs (pneumonia), skin, brain and toxoplasmosis (infection caused by a bacteria called toxoplasma). Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet is a combination of two antibiotics, namely: Trimethoprim (folic acid inhibitors) and Sulfamethoxazole (sulfonamides). Trimethoprim prevents the formation of tetrahydrofolic acid, and sulfamethoxazole stops the bacteria from making dihydrofolic acid. Tetrahydrofolic acid and dihydrofolic acid are essential for the formation of proteins and nucleic acids, which are necessary for the survival of the bacteria. By inhibiting these, Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet kills the bacteria and stops their growth. Thereby, it helps to treat bacterial infections. Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet is a broad-spectrum antibiotic which is active against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter species, Haemophilus influenzae, etc.

FAQs

How does Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet work?

Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet is a combination of two antibiotics, namely: Trimethoprim (folic acid inhibitors) and Sulfamethoxazole (sulfonamides). Trimethoprim prevents the formation of tetrahydrofolic acid, and sulfamethoxazole stops the bacteria from making dihydrofolic acid. By inhibiting these, Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet kills the bacteria and stops their growth. Thereby, helps to treat bacterial infections.

Does Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet cause thrush?

Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet causes thrush or candidiasis, which is a fungal infection occurring due to the overgrowth of yeast-like fungus in the mouth or throat. Regularly rinse your mouth with water to prevent the growth of fungus.

Does Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet cause diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea might be a side-effect of Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet . Drink lots of fluids and eat non-spicy food if you experience diarrhoea. If you find blood in stools (tarry stools) or if you experience prolonged diarrhoea with abdominal pain, stop taking Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet and consult your doctor. Do not take anti-diarrheal medicine on your own.

Can I stop taking Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet on my own?

It is recommended to complete the course of Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet even if you feel better as it is an antibiotic, and leaving it in between may lead to recurring infections. Continue taking Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet for as long as your doctor has prescribed to treat your condition effectually.

Can I take Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet on my own?

Do not take Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet on your own as self-medication may lead to antibiotic-resistance in which antibiotics fail to act against specific bacterial infections.

Does Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet affect diagnostic test results?

Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet may affect certain laboratory test results. Inform the person doing the tests that you are taking Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet .

Does Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet cause abnormal heartbeats?

Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet may cause high levels of potassium in the blood, which could lead to abnormal heartbeats (palpitations). Regular monitoring of potassium levels and heart rate is advised while taking Cotrimoxazole SS Tablet .