Sulfisoxazole is used in the treatment and prevention of infections associated with different bacteria, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
It also finds application in the treatment of serious urinary tract infections, repeated or persistent, meningococcal meningitis, acute otitis media, trachoma, conjunctivitis by inclusion, nocardiosis, the toxoplasmosis and chancroid.
What is Sulfisoxazole?
Sulfisoxazole prevents bacteria to produce folic acid by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of a precursor. In this way, it blocks the growth of microorganisms.
How should Sulfisoxazole be taken?
Sulfisoxazole is administered orally.
Side effects associated with Sulfisoxazole
The prolonged or repeated intake of Sulfisoxazole may increase the risk of other infections. Furthermore, the treatment can increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun, it can alter the test to measure levels of ketones in the urine and it can cause hypoglycemia.
Among the other possible adverse effects are included:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Gas
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if taking Sulfisoxazole triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling of face, eyes, lips, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Blood in the stool
- Cyanosis
- Dark urine
- Reduction of urine produced
- Fainting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Articular pains
- Irritation of the oral cavity
- Pallor
- Sore throat or persistent fever
- Skin redness, swelling or blistering
- Red or purple spots under the skin
- Convulsions
- Severe or persistent diarrhea
- Severe reactions from the sun
- Pain or abdominal cramps
- Difficulty passing urine
- Fatigue or unusual weakness
- Irritation or vaginal discharge
- Jaundice
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Sulfisoxazole
Sulfisoxazole is contraindicated at the end of pregnancy, in the first two months of lactation, in case of anemia by folic acid deficiency, severe kidney disorders or bladder blocks.
The treatment can compromise the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery, especially in concomitant use of alcohol or other drugs.
Moreover, before taking Sulfisoxazole it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, other medicines (especially sulfa), food or any other substance
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, especially anticoagulants, methotrexate and sulphonylureas
- You suffer (or have suffered) from diarrhea, sore throat, gastrointestinal infections, asthma, lack of G6PDH, blood, kidney or liver disorders
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Lastly, you must inform doctors, surgeons and dentists about ongoing treatment with Sulfisoxazole prior to any procedure.
