What is Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

Trimethoprim is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body.
Trimethoprim is used to treat bladder infection caused by certain bacteria.
Trimethoprim may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to trimethoprim, or if you have any type of anemia (lack of red blood cells).
Before using trimethoprim, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or a folic acid deficiency.
Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Trimethoprim will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Trimethoprim can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to trimethoprim, or have certain conditions. Be sure your doctor knows if you have any type of anemia (lack of red blood cells).
Before using trimethoprim, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• kidney disease
• liver disease; or
• a folate (folic acid) deficiency

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use trimethoprim.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Trimethoprim can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Proloprim Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
* pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding
* fever, chills, sore throat, flu symptoms; or
* severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash
Less serious side effects may include:
* nausea, vomiting
* sore or swollen tongue; or
* mild itching or skin rash
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Proloprim Interactions

What other drugs affect Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially phenytoin (Dilantin).
This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with trimethoprim. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Trimethoprim can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Proloprim Dosage

How should I take Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Take your medicine with a full glass of water.
Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Trimethoprim will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using trimethoprim.
Store trimethoprim at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I overdose on Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, confusion, weakness, or flu symptoms.

What happens if I miss a dose of Proloprim (Trimethoprim)?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com