Co-trimoxazole

About your medicine

Co-trimoxazole is an antibiotic that you will need to take after your kidney transplant. It is given at a low dose to prevent you from catching a specific chest infection. You are more likely to get infections while you are taking a lot of immuno-suppressant drugs for your new kidney. When you are asked to take less immuno-suppressant drugs you will be able to stop taking the co-trimoxazole, normally six months after your transplant.

Taking your medicine

You should swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. The tablets need to be taken once a day. If you have problems swallowing, a liquid is also available.

Unwanted effects

As with all medicines, co-trimoxazole can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects include feeling sick, being sick and skin rashes. If the tablets make you feel sick try taking them with food. If you develop a rash, you should report it to your doctor. Rarely side effects include changes that will be noticed with your blood tests, for example changes to your red and white blood cells and changes to your liver, which may cause you to become jaundiced (yellow).

Storing your medicine

You should store the tablets in their original container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.

Other advice

Always take your tablets as directed by your doctor and only stop them on the advice of your doctor.

Some drugs may cause a problem when taken with co-trimoxazole. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication along with co-trimoxazole.

NKF Controlled Document No. 66, Co-trimoxazole, written 22 April 2000. Last reviewed 10 March 2010.

The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.

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