OTHER NAMES
SULFONAMIDES - ORAL, SULFAMETHOXAZOLE

USES
Sulfonamides (sulfa drugs) are antibiotics used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION
Take each dose with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of water while on this medication. The liquid suspension form of this medicine must be shaken well before using. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.

SIDE EFFECTS
This medication may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, headache or vomiting during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. This drug may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Notify your doctor if your condition worsens or you develop a sore throat, yellowing of the eyes or skin, easy bruising or a skin rash. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.

PRECAUTIONS
Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history including that of liver or kidney disease, blood disorders and of any drug allergies. This medicine may make you more prone to sunburn. Wear protective clothing and a PABA-free sunscreen when outdoors. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk and may have an effect on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially of warfarin, methotrexate, cyclosporine, certain oral drugs used for diabetes (sulfonylureas), phenytoin and PABA.

NOTES
It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise. This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be needed in those cases.

MISSED DOSE
If you should miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.

STORAGE
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms.