Ashley asked
I was prescribed Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim) and it has helped treat my infection. However, I am having trouble sleeping at night and was going to take some Benadryl. Is this okay?
Answer
There is no drug interaction between Bactrim and Benadryl and these medications are safe to take at the same time. Benadryl can help to treat certain symptoms of infection such as sneezing, runny nose, insomnia and excess mucus production so taking it at the same time as Bactrim may be recommended by your doctor in certain situations.
A common side effect for many antibiotics, including Bactrim, is upset stomach. Taking it with food can help reduce this side effect. Otherwise, Bactrim is well tolerated, and increased side effects are unlikely if it is taken at the same time as Benadryl.
What Is Bactrim?
Bactrim is a prescription antibiotic used to treat and prevent infections caused by bacteria. It is actually a combination of two antibiotics, trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, that work in slightly different but complementary ways to kill bacteria. Many people are allergic to “sulfa drugs” and they should avoid Bactrim as it is a type of sulfa drug.
Usually, Bactrim is prescribed for a week or less to treat an infection. As with all antibiotics, you should finish the full course prescribed, even if you feel better before you finish the medication, and try not to miss doses as this could increase the risk of the bacteria becoming resistant to the antibiotic.
Bactrim can be used for a longer amount of time for certain infections and your doctor will likely monitor you more closely by doing blood drawif you take it for extended periods. Bactrim does interact with many medications, but it doesn’t interact with Benadryl.
What Is Benadryl?
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a a sedating "first-generation" antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms and, perhaps more commonly, mild allergic reactions (such as reactions to bee stings). Benadryl has strong sedating effects, which should be taken into consideration before using the medication. It is safe to take at the same time as Bactrim.
Common side effects of Benadryl include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Headache
Summary
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim) are safe to take together.
