Low albumin (Hypoalbuminemia): Causes, symptoms, and more



antibiotic for uti :: Article Creator

FDA To Review European-approved Oral Antibiotic For Urinary Tract Infections

UK-based biotechnology company Utility Therapeutics announced today that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted priority review to its new drug application (NDA) for pivmecillinam for treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs).

The company also announced that it has received a new round of funding led by the AMR Action Fund.

A widely used, well-studied antibiotic

Marketed under the brand name Pivya, pivmecillinam is a European-approved, oral antibiotic with a unique mechanism of action that has been used outside of the United States to treat uncomplicated UTIs for more than 40 years, with clinical cure rates of up to 95%. It's recommended as a first-line option in many countries, including Denmark, where it has long been used as a primary UTI treatment.

Utility Therapeutics acquired the US rights to the drug in 2018, along with the intravenous formulation, mecillinam, for which the company has submitted an NDA for complicated UTIs. Both drugs received the FDA's qualified infectious drug product designation in 2018. If the NDA for pivmecillinam is approved by the FDA, it would be the first new antibiotic approved in the United States for uncomplicated UTIs in over 20 years.

Uncomplicated UTIs are one of the most common reasons for outpatient antibiotic use in the United States and elsewhere, particularly in women, nearly half of whom will get a UTI in their lifetime. But resistance to first-line antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs has been growing. A 2022 World Health Organization surveillance report, which included data from 87 countries, found that more than 20% of Escherichia coli isolates—the most common cause of UTIs—were resistant to first- and second-line antibiotics.

This is a product that's been well-studied, it's been widely used across Europe, and it's on numerous guidelines as a first-line option.

Utility President and CEO Tom Hadley says that with the three most commonly prescribed first-line options for uncomplicated UTIs—nitrofurantoin, Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim), and fluoroquinolones—increasingly limited by resistance, efficacy, and safety issues, the unmet need is clear.

"There are 30 million prescriptions written for antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs every year, and over 90% of those are for those three products," Hadley told CIDRAP News. "There's a huge need, and doctors need options."

The NDA includes six clinical studies supporting pivmecillinam's efficacy and 12 supporting its safety. Hadley says the efficacy and safety data support positioning the drug as a first-line option. In addition, he notes that resistance rates to pivmecillinam have remained in the low single digits despite widespread use across Europe.

 "This is a product that's been well-studied, it's been widely used across Europe, and it's on numerous guidelines as a first-line option," he said.

That includes uncomplicated UTI guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America, which lists pivmecillinam as an appropriate choice in countries where it is available.

According to the company, both pivmecillinam and mecillinam have also shown potent in vitro and in vivo activity against multidrug-resistant urinary pathogens like extended-spectrum beta-lactamase–producing E coli, which is a growing threat both in hospitals and the community.

Support from AMR Action Fund

With today's announcement, Utility is the seventh company to receive funding from the AMR Action Fund, which was established in 2020 and aims to invest more than $1 billion over the decade with the goal of bringing two to four new antibiotics to market by 2030.

"The number of safe, effective antibiotics that clinicians have at their disposal continues to dwindle in the face of rising rates of antimicrobial resistance," AMR Action Fund CEO Henry Skinner, PhD, said in a press release. "Bringing pivmecillinam to the U.S. Will give clinicians an important tool to help patients suffering from urinary tract infections and support efforts to enhance global access to this drug."

Hadley say the financial support from AMR Action Fund is a validation of Utility's strategy and was critical in helping the company meet the FDA's requirements under the Prescription Drug User Fee Act.

The FDA is expected to make a decision on the NDA by April 24.


7 Home Remedies For Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
  • We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

    Was this helpful?

    A few home remedies may help ward off UTIs. These can include staying hydrated and trying various supplements, such as cranberry supplements or probiotics.

    Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common. A 2022 analysis found that more than 404.6 million people had UTIs worldwide in 2019.

    UTIs happen when bacteria from the skin or rectum enter the urethra. You can get an infection along any part of the urinary tract, but bladder infections are the most common.

    Though UTIs can affect anyone, people assigned female at birth are more prone to them. That's because the female urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the bladder, is shorter than the male urethra.

    The shorter distance makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. The proximity of the urethra to the vagina and rectum, which are sources of bacteria, also plays a role.

    Other risk factors for UTIs include:

  • history of UTIs
  • sexual activity
  • poor hygiene
  • age, with children and older adults more prone to UTIs
  • pregnancy
  • changes to vaginal bacteria, which spermicides and menopause can cause
  • structural problems in the urinary tract, such as an enlarged prostate
  • having a catheter in place
  • some medical conditions, such as diabetes
  • Bacteria cause almost 95% of UTIs, but fungi can also cause infection.

    Though antibiotics typically treat UTIs, several natural ways exist to help manage infections and reduce the risk of recurrence.

    This article reviews six home remedies you can use to treat UTIs.

    Dehydration is linked to an increased risk of UTIs.

    Regular urination can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract to prevent infection. When dehydrated, you aren't urinating as often, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria.

    A 2019 study examined nursing home residents and administered a drinking schedule to participants to increase their fluid intake. Following the hydration schedule, UTIs requiring antibiotics decreased by 58%.

    In a 2020 randomized control trial, 140 premenopausal participants prone to UTIs took part in a 12-month study to test if a higher fluid intake would decrease their risk of recurrent cystitis and, in turn, their risk of developing a UTI. Researchers found that an increase in fluid intake led to a decrease in UTI frequency.

    To stay hydrated and meet your fluid needs, it's best to drink water throughout the day and always when you're thirsty.

    Benefits of drinking more fluids for UTI

    Drinking plenty of liquids can decrease your risk of UTIs by making you pee more, which helps remove bacteria from your urinary tract.

    Some evidence suggests that increasing your vitamin C intake could protect against UTIs.

    Vitamin C is thought to work by increasing the acidity of urine, killing off the bacteria that cause infection.

    A small 2020 randomized placebo study involving 19 people who had undergone a kidney transplant found that the amount of bacteria in urine was significantly lower in people who received the intravenous vitamin C group than the placebo group.

    A 2016 study with 42 participants showed that combining vitamin C with two other popular natural UTI remedies — cranberries and the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus — could effectively treat recurrent UTIs.

    Despite these studies, more research is needed to prove vitamin C's effectiveness in reducing UTI risk. Plus, there are conflicting views on whether vitamin C can really change the acidity of your urine enough to kill off bacteria.

    If you need help getting enough vitamin C, you can try products like:

  • vitamin C gummies
  • sprays
  • oral tablets
  • However, it's still recommended to eat foods rich in vitamin C. Fruits and vegetables are especially high in vitamin C and are a good way to increase your intake. Red peppers, oranges, grapefruit, and kiwifruit all contain the full recommended daily amount of vitamin C in just one serving.

    Finally, keep in mind that if you're already meeting your vitamin C needs through diet alone, it's unclear whether taking additional vitamin C through supplements is beneficial.

    Nordic Naturals Vitamin C Gummies

    One serving of these tangerine-flavored gummies by Nordic Naturals contains 250 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C to support daily immunity. This certified vegan option is a simple way to supplement vitamin C from dietary sources.

    Plus, all Nordic Naturals supplements are third-party tested to ensure purity and potency with certificates of analysis (COAs) that are easily accessible online.

    Garden of Life Vitamin C Spray

    This citrusy spray provides a liquid boost of vitamin C support. You can choose a Stevia-sweetened version or a tangier taste without any sweetener.

    Five sprays on your tongue amount to one serving, which delivers 60 mg of vitamin C to your immune system. The spray bottle format means you can adjust the dosage to your needs.

    Benefits of vitamin C for UTI

    Increasing vitamin C intake may decrease your risk of UTIs by making your urine more acidic, thus killing infection-causing bacteria.

    Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice is one of the most well-known natural remedies for UTIs. If drinking unsweetened cranberry juice isn't your thing, you can take it in capsule form.

    Some experts believe cranberries have properties that might prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract, which helps with UTI prevention.

    In a study published in 2022, participants with a history of recurring uncomplicated UTIs reported a reduction in infections after taking a cranberry supplement for 6 months prior.

    Additionally, a 2021 review of 23 studies found that cranberry supplements (including juices, tablets, and capsules) significantly reduced the likelihood of UTIs.

    However, researchers noted there were several limitations of the studies reviewed. They recommend larger, higher-quality studies to confirm the potential role of cranberry supplements in preventing UTIs.

    Also, remember that while some research supports the use of cranberry supplements in the prevention of UTIs, whether they actually work as a treatment for an active UTI is less cut and dry.

    Finally, it's worth noting any possible benefits of this home remedy only apply to unsweetened cranberry juice (or cranberry capsules) rather than sweetened juice varieties. Cranberry juice with added sugars won't help treat an active UTI.

    Spring Valley Cranberry Extract Capsule

    Each serving of these capsules contains 500 mg of organic cranberry extract. Some reviewers who reported frequent UTIs say they've had success taking this supplement as a daily preventive measure.

    Benefits of cranberries for UTI

    Some studies suggest that cranberries could help reduce your risk of UTIs by preventing bacteria from adhering to your urinary tract.

    Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that are consumed through food or supplements. They can promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut.

    Probiotics are available in supplement form or can be found in fermented foods, such as:

  • kefir
  • kimchi
  • kombucha
  • probiotic yogurt
  • Consuming probiotics has been linked to many things, from improved digestive health to enhanced immune function.

    Some studies have shown that certain probiotics may reduce the risk of UTIs. These studies have involved the use of oral and vaginally administered probiotics as well as different probiotic strains.

    Antibiotics, the main line of defense against UTIs, can cause disturbances in levels of gut bacteria. Probiotics may be beneficial in restoring gut bacteria after antibiotic treatment.

    Studies have shown that probiotics can increase levels of good gut bacteria and reduce side effects associated with antibiotic use.

    Still, keep in mind that probiotics may not be appropriate for everyone. You can speak talk with a healthcare professional about whether probiotics are right for you and which strains to take.

    Bio-Kult Pro-Cyan Probiotic

    Bio-Kult Pro-Cyan is specifically formulated to support urinary tract health and includes cranberry extract and two targeted probiotic strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum.

    Research suggests that both strains have antimicrobial properties that may help block the growth of bacteria that can cause UTIs. Additionally, some studies have found that Lactobacillus acidophilus may promote overall vaginal health and protect against bacterial vaginosis.

    Benefits of probiotics for UTI

    Probiotics could help prevent UTIs and are beneficial for restoring gut bacteria after antibiotic treatment.

    Preventing UTIs starts with practicing a few good bathroom and hygiene habits.

    First, it's important not to hold your urine for too long. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria, resulting in infection.

    Peeing after sex has long been linked to a reduced risk of UTIs by preventing the spread of bacteria and is recommended by health authorities, including Planned Parenthood.

    Additionally, those who are prone to UTIs should avoid using spermicide, as it has been linked to an increase in UTIs.

    Finally, when using the toilet — especially if you have a female urethra — make sure you wipe front to back. Wiping from back to front can cause bacteria to spread to the urinary tract and is associated with an increased risk of UTIs.

    One way to stop or prevent any bacteria from spreading amongst genitalia is by using Always Feminine Wipes.

    Always Feminine Wipes

    Easily resealable and compact enough to keep on your person, these wipes are lightly scented to ensure you feel fresh and clean throughout the day. These are good for convenient access throughout your day.

    Benefits of healthy hygiene for UTI

    Urinating frequently and after sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of UTI. Careful wiping when you use the toilet may also help decrease the risk of UTI.

    Research shows garlic and garlic extract to have antimicrobial properties, so they may be able to block the growth of bacteria to prevent UTIs.

    While not many studies have specialized in the effects of garlic in treating UTIs, one older 2014 study found that the combination of garlic oil and parsley in pills could synergistically affect bacterial growth and proliferation.

    A 2022 study found that rats with an induced UTI caused by E. Coli bacteria significantly improved their infection when given garlic.

    While cooking garlic alters its properties and may decrease its health benefits, most people can safely consume raw garlic as part of a healthy diet. However, people with GERD, people who take blood thinners, and those with an irritable digestive tract might want to avoid eating garlic in its uncooked form.

    If you don't like or can't eat raw garlic but are interested in seeing if it could help ward off your next UTI, you might consider a garlic supplement.

    Nature's Bounty Garlic Extract

    Nature's Bounty's 1,000-mg garlic extract formula is primarily designed to support heart and cardiovascular health. However, it may also have immune-boosting properties, which could contribute to preventing recurring UTIs. Some consider it a way of helping reduce bacterial growth in the body.

    Benefits of garlic for UTI

    Garlic hasn't been strongly linked to treating or preventing UTIs, but it does have documented antimicrobial and immune-supporting properties.

    Consuming raw garlic or taking garlic supplements could have the added benefit of targeting certain bacterial strains that may be causing your UTIs to keep coming back.

    D-mannose is a type of sugar that is found in cranberries and other fruit. Similar to other home remedies on our list, it may be able to prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to your urinary tract.

    Some studies suggest it's effective in treating UTIs and preventing recurrence. At least three studies have shown that D-mannose is effective as a UTI deterrent and as a treatment for an active UTI.

    Research into how well D-mannose works to help people with recurrent UTIs is still early, but the results so far have been promising.

    You can add D-mannose to your diet by upping your intake of:

  • blueberries
  • cranberries
  • apples
  • peaches
  • oranges
  • broccoli
  • green beans
  • You can also consider adding a D-mannose supplement to your regimen.

    Perelel Urinary Tract Support Powder
  • Price: $$
  • What it's good for: people with recurrent UTIs who are interested in trying a D-mannose-containing supplement
  • In addition to D-mannose, Perelel Urinary Tract Support Powder contains hibiscus powder and nettle leaf, anecdotally known as home remedy for recurrent UTIs.

    According to the company, this powder is designed to be taken daily by stirring the contents into a glass of water.

    You can read more about Perelel in our comprehensive review.

    Here are some ways you can manage UTI symptoms that may also help prevent a recurrence:

  • Stay well hydrated.
  • Avoid or limit foods and drinks irritating the bladder, such as coffee, and soft drinks.
  • Avoid holding in your pee for too long.
  • Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to minimize bladder discomfort.
  • Ask your doctor about prescription or OTC pain medication.
  • Take all your antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
  • It's important to talk with a doctor if you have symptoms of a UTI. While natural remedies may help, a healthcare professional can diagnose a UTI and prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

    Left untreated, UTIs risk severe complications, including spreading to your kidneys. Don't ignore symptoms of a severe infection.

    Get in touch with a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:

  • a fever over 103°F (39.4°C)
  • shaking
  • chills
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • blood in your urine
  • Will a UTI go away on its own? How do you treat a UTI without going to the doctor?

    If you keep yourself well-hydrated, your UTI infection might resolve on its own. That said, this isn't true in all cases. Your UTI treatment will vary according to the cause of the infection.

    Some UTIs, especially chronic and recurring ones, need antibiotic treatment instead of simple home remedies. This means you will need to see a doctor for treatment.

    If you're prescribed antibiotics to treat a UTI, a healthcare professional may choose an antibiotic specific to the type of bacteria causing your infection.

    If you keep yourself well-hydrated, your UTI infection might resolve on its own. That said, this isn't true in all cases. Your UTI treatment will vary according to the cause of the infection.

    Some UTIs, especially chronic and recurring ones, need antibiotic treatment instead of simple home remedies. This means you will need to see a doctor for treatment.

    If you're prescribed antibiotics to treat a UTI, a healthcare professional may choose an antibiotic specific to the type of bacteria causing your infection.

    What relieves UTI quickly?

    Fast relief of a UTI might not be possible. Over-the-counter (OTC) products like AZO contain active antibacterial ingredients. In the case of AZO, the active ingredient is a compound called methenamine. In combination with an anti-inflammatory compound, these products are meant to help your body kill harmful bacteria.

    That said, the active ingredients in OTC products might not be enough for powerful bacterial infections. Also, most of these products are advertised as a protection against UTIs, not necessarily a treatment for current, active infections. You would need to see a doctor for proper treatment to get the right medication.

    Fast relief of a UTI might not be possible. Over-the-counter (OTC) products like AZO contain active antibacterial ingredients. In the case of AZO, the active ingredient is a compound called methenamine. In combination with an anti-inflammatory compound, these products are meant to help your body kill harmful bacteria.

    That said, the active ingredients in OTC products might not be enough for powerful bacterial infections. Also, most of these products are advertised as a protection against UTIs, not necessarily a treatment for current, active infections. You would need to see a doctor for proper treatment to get the right medication.

    How do you get rid of a UTI at home without antibiotics?

    Sometimes, you can get rid of a UTI naturally by:

  • resting
  • drinking lots of water
  • taking dietary supplements
  • giving the infection time to heal
  • UTIs can sometimes resolve naturally without the use of antibiotics.

    However, there are some situations where "wait and see" just isn't an acceptable approach. Untreated UTIs can cause potentially life threatening complications, including sepsis.

    Sometimes, you can get rid of a UTI naturally by:

  • resting
  • drinking lots of water
  • taking dietary supplements
  • giving the infection time to heal
  • UTIs can sometimes resolve naturally without the use of antibiotics.

    However, there are some situations where "wait and see" just isn't an acceptable approach. Untreated UTIs can cause potentially life threatening complications, including sepsis.

    What are signs that your UTI is healing?

    UTIs typically clear up within 7-10 days of starting treatment. You should notice a gradual improvement in your pain and other symptoms.

    You can talk with a doctor if you don't notice improvement within this time frame or your symptoms worsen.

    UTIs typically clear up within 7-10 days of starting treatment. You should notice a gradual improvement in your pain and other symptoms.

    You can talk with a doctor if you don't notice improvement within this time frame or your symptoms worsen.

    UTIs are a common and frustrating problem, particularly if they keep recurring.

    Home remedies and OTC products can help prevent UTIs but can't always eliminate the bacteria causing your infection. If you're trying home remedies but still have symptoms, you can talk with a healthcare professional to avoid complications.

    Staying hydrated, practicing health-promoting habits, and supplementing your diet with some UTI-fighting ingredients are good ways to lower your risk of these infections in the future.

    Read this article in Spanish.


    Bactrim For Sinus Infection: What To Know

    Medically reviewed by Lindsay Cook, PharmD

    Bactrim is an effective combination of two antibiotic drugs, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim, a combination which is also known as a "co-trimoxazole."

    This brand-name product is classified as a sulfonamide antibiotic and is available by prescription only.

    Bactrim has numerous Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved uses for adults and children 2 months and older, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and infections of the urinary tract, ears, and intestines, in addition to various types of respiratory infections.

    While not FDA-approved, Bactrim can also used to treat sinusitis, otherwise known as a sinus infection.

    However, Bactrim is no longer a first-line treatment for a sinus infection and is not currently a commonly prescribed choice.

    Instead, healthcare providers may prescribe Doxy-100 (doxycycline) or Levaquin (levofloxacin).

    This article will review Bactrim, its uses, side effects, dosing requirements, and its role in treating sinus infections.

    Getty Images / damircudic

    Understanding Bacterial Infections

    Bacterial infections were the second leading cause of death globally in 2019.

    Microorganisms (bacteria) cause bacterial infections. Bacteria are transmitted to humans through contaminated air, water, food, or other infected living organisms.

    Bacteria may release harmful chemicals called toxins. Toxins can damage tissues and cause symptoms of infection such as pain, inflammation, swelling, and even organ damage.

    Untreated bacterial infections can spread rapidly and may lead to life-threatening conditions.

    Common bacterial infections include urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and skin infections.

    Commonly Used Antibiotics

    The most commonly used drugs to treat bacterial infections belong to a class of drugs called antibiotics.

    Antibiotics work against bacterial infections by killing the bacteria or by inhibiting their growth and multiplication in the body.

    Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections only.

    Examples of commonly used antibiotics include:

    What Is Bactrim?

    Bactrim is an orally administered, brand-name antibiotic containing sulfamethoxazole, an antimicrobial, and trimethoprim, a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor antibacterial.

    This combination of active ingredients is known as co-trimoxazole, which also can be abbreviated as TMP-Sulfa.

    Bactrim has been used to treat several types of bacterial infections related to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

    It can also treat bacterial sinus infections caused by Moraxella catarrhalis (M. Catarrhalis), Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. Pneumoniae), and other bacterial infections.

    This medication treats the following bacterial infections in adults and children 2 months and older:

    Off-Label Uses

    Bactrim may also be prescribed for various off-label uses (prescribing a drug for a non-FDA-approved use), including:

    Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim in Other Products

    The combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole is available in brand-name form beyond Bactrim.

    For example, commonly prescribed brands include Septra and Septra DS.

    The combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole is also available as a generic drug in oral and injectable form.

    How It Works

    Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim work together to accomplish the following:

  • Blocking the biosynthesis of nucleic acids and proteins, a process essential for the growth of bacteria

  • The production of a bactericidal, which is the killing of bacteria

  • Bactrim for Sinus Infections

    Historically, Bactrim has been used as a treatment option for bacterial sinus infections.

    Despite this, Bactrim is no longer a first-line treatment for a sinus infection (when antibiotics are necessary) and is no longer a commonly prescribed choice.

    Now, healthcare providers will likely prescribe Doxy-100 (doxycycline) or Levaquin (levofloxacin) if a person's symptoms do not improve after using alternative treatment options or antibiotics.

    Dosing Bactrim for a Sinus Infection

    Your healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate Bactrim dose to treat your symptoms.

    Orally administered Bactrim for a sinus infection comes in two strengths:

    Your specific dosage, however, may be adjusted on various factors, such as weight, age, or kidney function.

    A healthcare provider may administer one to two tablets of Bactrim DS or Bactrim every 12 to 24 hours.

    The dose for children, however, is based on weight and should never be given to children younger than 2 months old.

    How Quickly Will Bactrim Work?

    Bactrim is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, producing its effects within one to four hours.

    The mean half-lives (the time half of the drug's active substance takes to exit the body) of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are 10 and eight to 10 hours, respectively.

    However, people with severely impaired kidney function cause have an increased half-life and require dose adjustment.

    Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim are primarily secreted from the body through urine.

    Side Effects and Precautions

    Bactrim is a generally safe antibiotic.

    However, several common and potentially severe side effects are associated with this combination product, as discussed below.

    Common Side Effects

    Common side effects associated with the use of Bactrim include:

    Severe Side Effects

    While rare, more severe side effects associated with the use of Bactrim include:

    Warnings and Precautions

    Consult your healthcare provider before taking Bactrim if you currently experience or have ever had any of the following medical conditions:

    Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for any adverse effects.

    Safe Consumption Guidelines

    The following guidelines should be observed to achieve the safe and effective use of Bactrim:

  • Bactrim is available as a tablet and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth.

  • Take two times or up to four times a day. Take Bactrim exactly as directed, and do not take more or less than prescribed.

  • Bactrim will improve your symptoms during the first few days of treatment. Call your healthcare provider if you do not feel well, or your symptoms worsen.

  • Mix or shake the liquid dosage form well before each use.

  • Drink plenty of fluids when taking Bactrim to avoid stone formation.

  • Do not use in pediatrics under 2 months of age.

  • Avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight, wear appropriate clothes and sunglasses, and use sunscreen to avoid sensitivity to light.

  • Complete your prescription and take Bactrim as long as prescribed, and only stop taking it after asking your healthcare provider, even if you feel well.

    If you stop taking Bactrim too soon or skip, doses may cause bacterial resistance and make antibiotics ineffective for future needs.

    Alternative Treatment Options

    Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat sinus infections. However, sometimes, it is possible to avoid antibiotics and try alternative methods to improve the symptoms.

    Some ways to help relieve sinus pain and pressure include:

  • Clean nasal passages every day

  • Put a warm compress over the nose and forehead

  • Use a decongestant

  • Nasal saline sprays

  • Inhale steam

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers and cold and cough medicines can help you feel better

  • You can also prevent the contamination and spread of sinus infections by:

  • Wash or clean your hands regularly

  • Vaccination for flu and pneumococcal vaccine.

  • Avoid contact with people who have colds or other upper respiratory infections

  • Avoid smoking

  • Use a humidifier

  • Sleep with an elevated head

  • Summary

    First approved in 1968, Bactrim, a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, treats various bacterial infections in adults and children 2 months and older.

    Bactrim has been a drug of choice for sinusitis for decades. It starts working within a few hours after oral administration. However, Bactrim is not a first-line treatment for a sinus infection and is no longer a commonly prescribed choice.

    Despite its effectiveness and worldwide use, it has some severe side effects. You can use it with your healthcare provider's advice in case of any other disease or taking other medications.

    Avoid when pregnant or breastfeeding as it may harm the baby.

    Always use this drug as prescribed for the specified period to reduce the chances of developing antibiotic resistance.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are younger or older people at risk of developing more serious side effects with Bactrim?

    Older adults are more prone to the side effects of Bactrim, such as skin reactions, blood disorders, easy bleeding, bruising, and a high potassium blood level.

    People with renal problems and folate deficiency also increase the risk of side effects.

    For how long is Bactrim present in the body?

    Bactrim drug traces can be found in the urine up to three days after an oral dose.

    Read the original article on Verywell Health.

    View comments






    Comments

    Popular posts from this blog