Vectrin

Vectrin is a trade name for the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, which is a combination of two synthetic (man-made) antibiotics. The drugs are used to treat various types of infections caused by bacteria.

Composition

Vectrin is composed of two antibiotics: sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. Sulfamethoxazole belongs to a group of drugs known as sulfonamides, which prevent the growth of bacteria in the body. Trimethoprim works by decreasing the ability of bacteria to utilize folic acid for growth.

Uses

Vectrin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including those that cause pneumonia, bronchitis, and infections of the urinary tract, ears, and intestines. It is also used to prevent and treat certain types of pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), a very serious kind of pneumonia. This type of pneumonia occurs more commonly in patients with weakened immune systems, such as HIV/AIDS patients, cancer patients, or transplant patients who are taking certain immunosuppressant drugs.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, Vectrin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some common side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. Serious side effects are rare, but may include severe skin rashes, blood disorders, liver disorders, and severe allergic reactions.

Precautions

Before taking Vectrin, patients should inform their doctor if they have a history of allergies to sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, or any other drugs. It is also important to inform the doctor of any other medications being taken, as Vectrin can interact with other drugs.

See Also

• Antibiotics
• Sulfonamides
• Trimethoprim
• Bacterial Infections