Sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim for Urinary Tract Infection User Reviews (Page 2)
Brand names: Bactrim, Bactrim DS, Septra, SMZ-TMP DS, Co-trimoxazole, Septra DS, Bactrim IV, Bactrim Pediatric, Sulfatrim Pediatric Bethaprim Bethaprim Pediatric …show all brand names
Sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim has an average rating of 4.4 out of 10 from a total of 707 reviews for the treatment of Urinary Tract Infection. 29% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 53% reported a negative experience.
Reviews for Sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim
- Chris...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- February 12, 2020
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Just like everyone else, I was scared to take the antibiotic Bactrim because of reviews. I took it with a light snack and a lot of water and was fine. I had a slight headache, but I was also stressing about the UTI, especially since Valentine's Day is coming. I was prescribed 2 pills a day for 3 days. I went last night for a urine sample, and all is clear. Love that I only had to take this for 3 days. I also didn't get a yeast infection, but took Good Belly along with it."
- Super...
- January 7, 2015
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Something really bad happened to me 14 years ago that caused trauma to the urinary tract. Ever since I have used Bactrim on a regular basis to flush out my bladder and urethra of bacteria because my body does not do a sufficient job through urination. If you take it on an empty stomach, it will make you feel really sick, but the medicine is awesome and I highly recommend it."
Frequently asked questions
- What drugs should be avoided with a sulfa allergy?
- Does Bactrim cause headaches?
- Can I drink alcohol when taking sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim DS?
- What dose of co-trimoxazole is used in a patient with a UTI?
- Hilly
- July 1, 2019
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Have been struggling with UTIs despite my many and varied preventive measures. Had some backup Bactrim that I tried instead of the Augmentin I was prescribed. On both occasions, within a half hour, I was in massive extreme discomfort, my vagina was on fire. I assumed I had developed a curiously fast yeast infection and treated it that way but with little success. Having done some research, I now see it’s a less common but real side effect, similar to a swollen tongue or hives, the vagina is the area affected. Lesson learned, but terrible that this side effect isn’t mentioned more commonly, a nightmare."
- elletee
- November 11, 2013
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Make sure Bactrim is actually the correct medication for your UTI! I took Bactrim for 4 days with no relief before my doctor's office got the results back from my UA and realized that Bactrim is resistant to the bacteria causing my UTI. Now I am taking Cipro and it seems to be doing the trick. I did not have any side effects with Bactrim though, it just didn't work for me."
Are you taking this medicine?
- Ans
- Taken for less than 1 month
- July 28, 2013
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I was prescribed Bactrim DS 2x a day for 10 days to clear a urinary tract infection. I was having nausea, acid reflux, and intestinal/digestive issues that felt like irritable bowel syndrome or stomach flu by the 3rd day. After the 5th day, I decided to stop taking it, and the infection is gone along with all side effects. I am glad I decided to stop taking it, it seems Bactrim DS 2x a day was a bit too much for me."
- Mitsu...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- July 16, 2016
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "This is an amazing drug. I've never had any side effects besides that one where my bladder infection went away. If you're reading people's posts who have horrible side effects, they probably have an easily upset stomach. Don't eat or drink water. In most people, these don't cause side effects when properly taken. Or allergic! I wouldn't be too worried."
- Anonymous
- April 5, 2013
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Had a 7-day prescription of Bactrim DS. The first two days, I had a headache. By the 3rd day, I started feeling nausea, which turned into nausea, dizziness, and constant fatigue. I've been off the medicine for 36 hours and still feel extremely exhausted, dizzy, and a little queasy at times."
- Cam
- September 6, 2020
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Took sulfamethoxazole with trimethoprim for a minor testicular infection. I got very sick. It caused chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, and sharp pains all over my body. The doctor told me it was in my head, and I kept taking it. I eventually ended up in the hospital and was so sick I could barely sleep. It’s been a month since I took this drug, and while some of the problems are gone, I still have very bad muscle weakness, cramping in my legs, and sharp pains that feel like nerve damage. I’ve seen many doctors all agree that Bactrim did something to my system. I urge you to not take this drug. I haven’t had any response from my doctor since I called with all my symptoms. It has gotten so severe I’m starting to think my life might never be the same, and I was completely healthy, a 21-year-old before this. DO NOT TAKE THIS."
- emano
- Taken for less than 1 month
- December 26, 2020
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "My anxiety and mental health was under control until I got a mild UTI and was prescribed Bactrim. My heart rate skyrocketed for days, it induced panic attacks, I had no idea what was happening to me until I looked up the reviews and realized I was reacting to the bactrim. My heart rate reached 130 bpm at one point and I went to the doctor to have my heart checked. I took 4 doses and will never take this again. It ruined my life. 2 weeks later I’m still recovering from the anxiety it caused. I am angry this medication was prescribed to me."
- Anonymous
- October 9, 2009
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I never had an allergic reaction until I took this medication. Now I learned the hard way I'm allergic to sulfa drugs. After one dose, I had a lot of serious side effects: high fever, intense stomach pain, insomnia, hallucinations, anxiety, non-stop chills/shaking, vomiting, and rash. Needless to say, I ended up in the hospital for 3 days. I think that you need to be careful when taking the drug and be aware of all the serious side effects."
- Anonymous
- Taken for less than 1 month
- March 6, 2019
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I've had multiple UTIs in my life, so I know what it feels like when I'm getting one. Tuesday night I had symptoms, so I went to the doctor the morning after. Got prescribed Bactrim DS. I did what everyone shouldn't do and Googled reviews. I was so scared to take it, but I felt 100% fine. I was a little dizzy when I first took it, but I honestly think that it was all in my head. This is the only medicine I take for UTIs. I suggest taking it with food to prevent nausea. But no dizziness. No nausea. No fever. And my infection feels better already."
- Since...
- September 13, 2019
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I was prescribed Bactrim DS for a UTI. I drank a full glass of water with every dose and continued to drink large amounts of water throughout the day. I also made sure to take this on a full stomach. I’m a healthy 26-year-old female and this is my first UTI. After taking Bactrim for 24 hours, I experienced severe side effects. I had debilitating kidney pain and lower back pain, severe gas, foamy explosive diarrhea, bloating, racing heart rate, severe anxiety (almost to the point of paranoia), and brain fog. I could not even hold a simple conversation. I felt like I was dying. After reading many reviews online, I discovered these same side effects have affected so many others while taking Bactrim. Once the drug was out of my system and I discontinued use, these side effects subsided. This antibiotic may work for some, but be aware of the possible severe side effects when you are assessing the risk of taking Bactrim."
- Frequ...
- October 29, 2017
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I used to get UTIs every month or two until I finally started my daily dose of raw organic apple cider vinegar with “mother” mixed with honey water. It has been the only thing that has helped. I am now on my 8th month of no UTIs! It really surprised me as I’m not big into homeopathic remedies."
- CB1992
- April 21, 2015
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "This is definitely my favorite medicine to treat urinary tract infections. I have a longstanding history with UTIs, one even sent me to the ER. The best part about this medicine is that it works quickly, and I feel relief within the first dose, which is great. I tried nitrofurantoin once and absolutely hated it because of the side effects and will stick with this. Luckily I've never experienced any negative side effects, and I've taken it with and without food. No nausea, nothing! It's definitely a hefty-sized pill, though."
- Annie...
- December 17, 2016
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I was prescribed Bactrim DS for a severe UTI and a 7-day, twice-a-day schedule. On the second day of dosage, I began having flu-like symptoms such as dizzy spells, nausea, aches, weakness, and I felt so sick I thought I was going to die. I felt worse each day, and by the 6th day of dosage, I had to return to my doctor. He said I must have had a severe allergy to this medicine. He gave me a shot of antibiotics and a prescription of 500 mg Amoxicillin. I am finally feeling better. The Bactrim did not work on me. They put a note in my chart to not prescribe Bactrim to me again. I think that some people have allergies to this, I know I do. Hope my story helps you."
- Urmoot
- Taken for less than 1 month
- March 3, 2017
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Prescribed generic Bactrim DS, 2x/day for 3 days. Just took my last dose and minimal side effects. I always ate a big, substantial meal before taking this medication even though I had a loss of appetite (ate food that had tons of starch). Also, drank tons of water after and throughout the day. I was constantly peeing, but at least I knew I was drinking enough. Had minor upset stomach and fatigue, but still very functional, especially when the pain from UTI was gone. Took a day and a half to feel relief."
- JessG
- May 19, 2014
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Felt mild relief. Doc said it should be gone in 3 days, gave me enough to take it for 5 days in case it was not gone. I also experienced fevers and achiness. Not pleasant. Every day I had discomfort, and today I am out of it and feel terrible with my urinary tract symptoms again."
- Anonymous
- May 26, 2010
SMZ-TMP DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I would get a urinary tract infection when I had sex. To control the situation, my doctor prescribed SMZ-TMP DS. I took one or two a day for years. As long as I took the pills, I was not bothered with a UTI. Miss a day or two, and UTI. Worked wonderfully."
- cano
- Taken for less than 1 month
- September 9, 2018
SMZ-TMP DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I had smelly urine but not the usual symptoms of UTI, but the doctor put me on this and by the 4th day still had a problem and felt sick - listless, not able to eat, stomach felt like it was full and heavy. By day 8 of taking it, my son convinced me to stop the medication. I did and felt a bit better, but it is now a month later and I have lost 14 lbs and am barely able to stomach any food. I almost throw up when even thinking about eating! I have to force myself to eat--not at all happy!!!!!"
- Kitty...
- May 10, 2014
Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I was prescribed Bactrim and felt worse right away. After reading the side effects, I told myself that what I was feeling was normal. I took the prescribed dosage (2 per day) for 5 days, feeling even worse on the 5th day - shaky, diarrhea, headache, nervousness, unable to sleep. Then, after some research, I discovered that there also were interaction side effects with my blood pressure medications."
- Anony...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- April 10, 2019
SMZ-TMP DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I was prescribed sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (SMZ/TMP) twice a day for 7 days for a UTI. I have one pill left, almost all the symptoms are gone. The first day I took the pill, I was extremely sleepy. Every day after that, I had a horrible headache in the back of my head and a stiff neck that came and went every few hours, also brought on by light sensitivity. Nausea, out of breath at times, cold sweat on exertion, and jittery."
- Aut
- Taken for less than 1 month
- March 14, 2018
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "If you're sick, meds typically have at least one side effect you'll experience. It's a prescription drug, not a miracle homeopathic treatment found in nature. You need to follow instructions and be aware of the warnings given. Ex: DON'T DRINK ALCOHOL during the course of the med. You NEED TO EAT SOMETHING with most meds, and drinking lots of water (way more than normal) is important too. I don't eat/drink water enough on a regular basis, and I love alcohol, but if I'm on a med, I alter my lifestyle to relieve symptoms of an infection I felt were bothersome enough to go to the docs in the first place. I've had no issues with Bactrim/sulfa thankfully, and those who have might want to find out if they are allergic to it prior to writing a bad review. It's a VERY common drug allergy that shouldn't sway the opinions of those not allergic. If you happen to have severe side effects from this, or any, med please find out if you are allergic first and consider it a personal learning opportunity."
- LeeOz
- Taken for less than 1 month
- June 30, 2019
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Fought a UTI for over a week and finally gave up and went to the doctor earlier today. He prescribed Bactrim DS twice a day for 10 days, and within an hour of my first dose, the pain was gone. I’d hardly been able to leave the bathroom for almost a full day, and all it took was one pill for me not to be absolutely miserable. I was an idiot for waiting and have had no unpleasant side effects."
- Gidget
- Taken for less than 1 month
- October 30, 2019
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "Bactrim DS, taken twice a day, has been effective for each UTI I’ve had. It covers a resistant strain of E. coli and has been effective all the times I’ve taken it. I just make sure to eat a meal prior to taking it, and I’m fine."
Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.
Learn more about Urinary Tract Infection
- Antibiotic Resistance: The Top 10 List
- Antibiotic Shortages: A Serious Safety Concern
- Antibiotics 101
- Antibiotics and Birth Control Pill Interactions
- Antibiotics For UTI Treatment - What Are My Options?
- Anticholinergic Drugs to Avoid in the Elderly
- Can You Drink Alcohol with Antibiotics?
- Common Side Effects from Antibiotics, and Allergies and Reactions
- Why Don’t Antibiotics Kill Viruses?
Care guides
- Gonorrhea
- Interstitial Cystitis
- Kidney Infection
- Ovarian Abscess
- Prostatitis
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Trichomoniasis
Medicine.com guides (external)
More about sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (1,716)
- Drug images
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- Patient tips
- During pregnancy
- Support group
- Drug class: sulfonamides
- En español
Patient resources
- Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim drug information
- Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Advanced Reading)
- Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Tablets
- Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Injection
- Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Suspension
Other brands
Bactrim, Septra, SMZ-TMP DS, Cotrim, ... +3 more
Professional resources
- Sulfamethoxazole Trimethoprim Oral Suspension prescribing information
- Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim (FDA)
- Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Double Strength (FDA)
- Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Injection (FDA)
- Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim Suspension (FDA)
Other brands
Bactrim, Septra, Co-trimoxazole, Sulfatrim
Bactrim DS (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim) "I used to get recurrent urinary tract infections but hadn't had one in 7 years. Just got one and they tried nitrofurantoin but it did nothing. I got Bactrim and the urgency and burning was gone within hours. I don't like taking antibiotics but UTIs are no joke. Bactrim worked for me and thank goodness. I get a little stomach ache but it beats the UTI symptoms!"