Bactrim - PCP
(pneumocystis Carnii Penumonia)

Purpose:
Bactrim is used to prevent and treat PCP and other infections. The risk of PCP is increased for transplant patients because of the drugs taken to suppress their immune systems, which reduce their bodies' ability to fight infection.

How to take:

• This medication is taken by mouth and is available in pill or liquid form.

• The transplant team will determine the proper dosage and length of time to take Bactrim.

• Take plenty of fluids with this medication - check with the transplant team about the amount.

Precautions:

• Do not take Bactrim if allergic to sulfa. In that case the transplant team may prescribe another drug.

• The benefits of taking Bactrim if a patient is pregnant or breast feeding must be weighed against the potential hazards to her, her fetus, or her infant. A patient should consult her transplant team immediately if she thinks she's pregnant.

Principal side effects:
These include, but are not limited to, decreased white blood cell count, nausea, vomiting, rash, itching, and loss of appetite.