Trimethoprim: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim oral suspension and other antibacterial drugs, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim oral suspension sh
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label 06e3d76b…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim oral suspension and other antibacterial drugs, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim oral suspension should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to empiric selection of therapy. Urinary Tract Infections: For the treatment of urinary tract infections due to susceptible strains of the following organisms: Escherichia coli , Klebsiella species, Enterobacter species, Morganella morganii , Proteus mirabilis and Proteus vulgaris . It is recommended that initial episodes of uncomplicated urinary tract infections be treated with a single effective antibacterial agent rather than the combination. Acute Otitis Media: For the treatment of acute otitis media in pediatric patients due to susceptible strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae when in the judgm…
Conditions associated with Trimethoprim in labeling
Bronchitis
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, usually viral, causing a productive cough that can last several weeks....
COPD
A group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause airflow obstructi...
Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes fluid ...
Otitis Media
Infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes hearin...
Pneumonia
Infection of the lung tissue that can cause cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Can be caused by b...
Shigellosis
Shigellosis is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Trimethoprim used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Trimethoprim?
Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.
Does Trimethoprim require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Trimethoprim.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.