Bactrim Dosage

The recommended Bactrim dosage for treating a urinary tract infection is one "double-strength" or two regular-strength tablets every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days. The same applies for the treatment of shigellosis or traveler's diarrhea, but the drug is taken for only 5 days. Dosing for children and for the treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia is determined by weight.

Dosage of Bactrim: An Introduction

The dose of Bactrim® (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim) that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • The type of infection and bacteria
  • Your height and weight (for some uses)
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may currently be taking.
     
As is always the case, do not adjust your dosage unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 

Bactrim Dosing for Adults

The recommended dosing for adults with normal kidney function is as follows:
 
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI) treatment -- one Bactrim DS or two regular-strength Bactrim tablets every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days
  • Shigellosis or traveler's diarrhea treatment -- one Bactrim DS or two regular-strength Bactrim tablets every 12 hours for 5 days
  • Acute worsening of chronic bronchitis treatment -- one Bactrim DS or two regular-strength Bactrim tablets every 12 hours for 14 days
  • Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia treatment -- dosage based on weight, taken every 6 hours for 14 to 21 days
  • Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia prevention -- one Bactrim DS tablet once daily.
     
Lower Bactrim dosages may be recommended for people with kidney disease.

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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