From the Guidelines
Bactrim (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) can cause a cough as a side effect, as evidenced by a study showing a significant reduction in the presence of nighttime cough in patients treated with Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole compared to placebo 1.
Mechanism and Clinical Implications
The mechanism behind Bactrim-induced cough is thought to involve the body's immune response to the medication components, particularly the sulfa component which is more commonly associated with allergic reactions. If a patient develops a persistent cough while taking Bactrim, particularly if accompanied by difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or wheezing, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately as this could indicate a serious hypersensitivity reaction.
Key Points to Consider
- Coughing may occur as part of an allergic reaction to the medication or as a respiratory side effect.
- Some patients may develop a cough due to Bactrim-induced lung inflammation (pneumonitis) or as part of a more generalized allergic response.
- Other respiratory symptoms to watch for include shortness of breath or throat tightness.
- If a patient experiences coughing while taking Bactrim, they should not stop the medication without medical advice, but do seek prompt evaluation from their healthcare provider.
Evidence-Based Recommendation
Based on the available evidence, it is essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients taking Bactrim for signs of a cough or other respiratory symptoms and to promptly evaluate any concerns 1. This approach prioritizes patient safety and well-being, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions while ensuring the effective treatment of the underlying condition.
From the FDA Drug Label
Hypersensitivity Reactions of the Respiratory Tract Cough, shortness of breath, and pulmonary infiltrates potentially representing hypersensitivity reactions of the respiratory tract have been reported in association with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim treatment Cough, shortness of breath, and pulmonary infiltrates are hypersensitivity reactions of the respiratory tract that have been reported in association with sulfonamide treatment Advise patients to stop taking sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim oral suspension immediately if they experience any clinical signs such as rash, pharyngitis, fever, arthralgia, cough, chest pain, dyspnea, pallor, purpura or jaundice and to contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible
Yes, Bactrim (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) can cause a cough as a hypersensitivity reaction of the respiratory tract 2, 3, 2.
From the Research
Bactrim (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) and Cough
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that suggests Bactrim (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) causes a cough 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
- The studies focus on various topics, including omeprazole-induced cough 4, the use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in treating chest infections 5, the properties and uses of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 6, management of common cold symptoms with over-the-counter medications 7, and guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough in adults and children 8.
- None of the studies specifically investigate the relationship between Bactrim (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) and cough as a side effect.
- However, it is worth noting that cough can be a symptom of various conditions, including respiratory tract infections, which may be treated with antibiotics like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 5, 6.
Related Information
- Omeprazole, a different medication, has been reported to cause cough in some cases, with a temporal relationship between cough and medication use suggesting a causal relationship 4.
- The management of cough symptoms, including those caused by common colds or chronic cough, may involve various treatments, including over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs like antibiotics or antitussives 7, 8.