Gantanol or Sulfamethoxazole

Why is this drug prescribed?
Sulfamethoxazole, a "sulfa" drug, eliminates bacteria that cause infections, especially urinary tract infections.
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When should it be used?
Sulfamethoxazole is usually taken twice a day for 10 to 14 days or longer. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part that you do not understand. It is best to take doses of sulfamethoxazole as far apart as possible. For example, if you are taking it twice a day, take it every 12 hours.
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How should it be used?
Sulfamethoxazole comes in tablets and oral liquid. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. Your first dose will probably be two times the amount of all other doses. Drink a full glass of water after each dose. Ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. The liquid should be shaken well before each use to mix the medication evenly. You may obtain a specially marked measuring spoon from your pharmacist to be sure of an accurate dose.
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What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
Drink at least eight glasses of liquid (water, coffee, tea, soft drinks, milk, or fruit juice) every day. Take all the medication prescribed, even after you begin to feel well. Failure to do so could allow the infection to return. Do not stop taking sulfamethoxazole without your doctor's consent. If you still have the same symptoms after taking all of your medication, contact your doctor. Take care not to sunburn. If you will be outside for long periods, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen to protect your skin from sunlight. Keep all appointments with your doctor while taking sulfamethoxazole, especially if you take it for more than two weeks. Blood tests may be needed to make sure you do not have adverse effects.
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What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, even if you have to double the next dose. Take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals.
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What side effects can this drug cause? What can I do about them?

Skin rash, skin changes
Stop taking the medication and contact us.

Upset stomach
Take the drug after meals or with a snack.

Diarrhea, loss of appetite, loss of balance
If these effects are severe or last for more than two days, tell us.

Dizziness, fever, headache, joint or muscle aches, pale or yellow skin, sore throat, swallowing problems, tiredness, unusual bleeding or bruising, weakness
Contact us at once.

What other precautions should I follow while using this drug? If you have had a bad reaction to any sulfa drug, "water pills," or oral diabetes drugs, do not take this medicine without telling your doctor. Before taking sulfamethoxazole, tell your doctor if you have asthma, hay fever, kidney disease, or liver disease, or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby. Tell your doctor if you are taking other prescription or nonprescription medications. Before having surgery or dental work with a general anesthetic, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking sulfamethoxazole. Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages, as the effects of alcohol may be felt more quickly.

What storage conditions are necessary for this drug? If your doctor tells you to stop taking this drug, throw away any unused medication. Sulfamethoxazole loses its effectiveness over time and should not be saved to treat another infection.
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