Bactrim antibiotic sold in Türkiye faces deadly risk, banned in US
A medical report with compositions of antibiotics, featuring light green pills, injections, and a syringe. (Adobe Stock Photo)
A warning has been issued in the United States regarding the antibiotic Bactrim, which has been used for nearly 80 years to treat ear, chest, and urinary tract infections.
The medication, still widely used by millions globally, is now under scrutiny for its potentially deadly side effects.
Bactrim: A common antibiotic with dangerous side effects
Bactrim, commonly prescribed for middle ear infections, chest, urinary tract, and stomach infections, has been a go-to treatment for a variety of bacterial infections worldwide. It is also widely used in Türkiye, especially for treating infections in children.
However, recent reports suggest that this antibiotic may cause severe and sometimes fatal side effects, triggering alarms across medical communities.
Growing concern in US: Fatal complications
Every year, approximately 3 million Americans use Bactrim to treat infections, including ear, chest and urinary tract infections.
In Texas, a 12-year-old patient, Emmie Bellucci, is fighting for her life after suffering a severe reaction to the drug. Doctors have identified that antibiotic triggers immune responses in young patients, leading to respiratory failure.
According to a report from the daily Oksijen in Türkiye, specialists investigating this rare complication are calling for more research into the long-term effects of that antibiotic. They recommend conducting tests to assess potential risk factors before prescribing the drug.
FDA issues warning and states begin pulling Bactrim from shelves
In 2021, a report found that one-third of patients who experienced severe complications died, and 20% required lung transplants. Following this, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided to add a warning label for “severe lung side effects” on Bactrim. Alabama was the first state to remove the drug from shelves.
