What are Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP)?

Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim (SMZ-TMP) Tablets are a combination antibiotic used to treat respiratory, urinary tract, skin, or gastrointestinal infections, and other conditions. Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim (SMZ-TMP) Tablets require a prescription from your veterinarian, and are sold per tablet.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits:

• Effective against a wide array of bacterial infections in dogs and cats
• Simple once-a-day dosing

How do Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP) work?

Sulfamethoxazole is a sulfonamide antibiotic that limits the growth of bacteria. Sulfonamides inhibit synthesis of folic acid, important to bacterial DNA synthesis. Trimethoprim works by starving the bacteria of nucleotides necessary for DNA replication.

Cautions:

Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals. Leave plenty of water for your pet to drink. Report any unusual side effects to your veterinarian.

Brand Name:

Bactrim, Bactrim DS (Roche), Septra, Septra DS (Monarch)

Generic Name:

Sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) and Trimethoprim (TMP) (sulfa-meth-ox'-ah-zole with tri-meth'-o-prim)

What is the most important information I should know about Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP) ?

Sulfamethoxadole and Trimethoprim is a prescription medication that is not FDA-approved for veterinary use; but it is commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this medication for dogs and cats. Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets are available as scored tablets. The usual initial dose for dogs and cats is 13mg/pound every 24 hours, which may be divided into two doses given 12 hours apart. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. Do not give Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets to any pet other than the pet for whom it was prescribed. Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets are not for use in animals allergic to it or other sulfa drugs.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP) to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver or kidney disease, G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) deficiency, or if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

How should Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP) be given?

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. The dose and duration of therapy will depend on the type of infection and the response to the medication. Give all of the medication your veterinarian has prescribed. Symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated. Give Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets by mouth. The tablets may be given with food, and they can be crushed and put in food if needed. Allow plenty of water for your pet to drink. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What are the possible side effects of Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP)?

Stop giving the medication and seek emergency veterinary medical attention if your pet experiences an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, or hives), unusual bleeding or bruising, or yellow skin or eyes. Other less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to give the medication and talk to your veterinarian if your pet experiences fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, weakness, or increased sensitivity to the sun. Side effects other than those listed may occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP)?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP)?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, yellowing of the eyes, decreased urine production, bloody urine, and coma.

What should I avoid while giving Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP) to my pet?

Do not give this medication to pets allergic to it or other sulfonamides (sulfa drugs). Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. This medication may increase sensitivity of the skin to sunlight.

What other drugs will affect Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets (SMZ-TMP)?

Before giving this medication to your pet, tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given warfarin, aspirin, glipizide, or phenytoin. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving prescription or over-the-counter medications.