Trimethoprim BP

Trimethoprim BP Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Trimethoprim BP is a brand name. Its generic name is Trimethoprim.

Introduction

Trimethoprim BP is a synthetic antimicrobial compound used in combination with sulfamethoxazole (SXT or SMX). It is used in the treatment of a wide variety of infections, including urinary tract infections, acute otitis media, bronchitis, shigellosis, prostatitis, cholera, and pneumonia.

Uses

Trimethoprim BP is commonly used in combination with Sulfamethoxazole, in the treatment of acute bacterial infections of the urinary tract, such as cystitis, pyelonephritis and acute uncomplicated prostatits. It is also used for shigellosis, chronic bronchitis, acute otitis media, cholera and pneumonia.

Mechanism of Action

Trimethoprim BP blocks the synthesis of dihydrofolate, an important cofactor in bacterial metabolism, by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. By doing so, it reduces the production of folic acid in bacteria, and prevents it from using it for DNA production.

How Long Does it Take to Work

Trimethoprim BP begins to work within 24-72 hours depending on the severity of the infection. It is important to complete full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even when symptoms of the infection disappear.

Absorption

Trimethoprim BP is rapidly and well absorbed with peak plasma concentrations usually seen in an hour or two after oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Trimethoprim BP is mainly eliminated unchanged in the urine by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion with only a small amount metabolized.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for adults and children over 12 years is 8-10 mg per kg body weight every twelve hours (maximum 4 g per day). The usual adult dose is one tablet (160 mg) of sulfamethoxazole and one tablet (80 mg) of trimethoprim, twice a day, for 10-14 days. For children under twelve years, the recommended dosage is 5-7 mg/kg body weight every twelve hours, with a maximum daily dose of 60 mg/kg body weight.

Administration

Trimethoprim BP is available as a tablet or as a suspension in strength of 80 mg/5ml. It should be taken with or after food to enhance absorption. It should not be mixed with antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, as well as products containing iron, zinc, iron, calcium, or sodium bicarbonate, as it will reduce absorption.

Side Effects

The common side effects of trimethoprim include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sunburn easily, headache, loss of appetite, and rashes. Other less common side effects can include anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and hypersensitivity.

Toxicity

Extensive use of trimethoprim, especially for prolonged periods, can lead to the development of microbial resistance. Large doses of trimethoprim can cause acute renal failure and acute hemolytic anemia. Rarely, it can cause Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Precaution

Trimethoprim BP should not be used in pregnant women unless absolutely necessary. People with a history of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency should avoid trimethoprim as it can cause hemolytic anemia. In the case of people with severe hepatic and renal impairment, it is advisable to reduce the dosage.

Interactions

Trimethoprim BP can interact with certain drugs such as warfarin (causing an increase in prothrombin time), aspirin (increased risk of bleeding), phenytoin (decreases its efficacy by induction of hepatic metabolism) and methotrexate (increase risk of toxicity).

Disease Interaction

People with severe hepatic impairments should avoid using trimethoprim. Furthermore, caution should be taken in people who have depression, diabetes, hematologic disorders, renal impairment, phenylketonuria, seizure disorder, thyroid disorders and Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Drug Interaction

Trimethoprim BP can interact with drugs such as warfarin, aspirin, phenytoin and methotrexate. It can also interact with other antimicrobials, antacids, penicillins, tetracyclines, antidiabetic drugs, NSAID, theophylline and vitamins.

Food Interactions

Trimethoprim BP should not be taken with antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, as well as products containing iron, zinc, iron, calcium, or sodium bicarbonate, as it will reduce absorption.

Pregnancy Use

Trimethoprim BP should not be used in pregnant women unless absolutely necessary. Studies conducted in animals have revealed that trimethoprim has teratogenic effects.

Lactation Use

Trimethoprim BP is excreted in the breast milk hence it should be avoided in breastfeeding mothers.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of acute overdose include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hemolytic anemia, renal failure, and features of hyperkalemia.

Contraindication

Trimethoprim BP is contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to trimethoprim or other sulfonamide derivatives, severe hepatic and renal impairment, folate deficiency and pregnancy.

Use Direction

Trimethoprim BP should be taken with or after food to enhance absorption. It should not be mixed with antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, as well as products containing iron, zinc, iron, calcium, or sodium bicarbonate, as it will reduce absorption.

Storage Condition

Store trimethoprim tablets at room temperature in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and away from children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

Trimethoprim BP has a volume of distribution of ~25 liters.

Half Life

The elimination half life of trimethoprim is ~9-11 hours.

Clearance

Trimethoprim BP has a renal clearance of ~70 ml/min.

Here you find in details version of Trimethoprim BP

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Trimethoprim BP

What is Trimethoprim BP?

Trimethoprim BP is an antibiotic medicine used to treat bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

What is Trimethoprim BP used to treat?

Trimethoprim BP is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including bladder infections, sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia.

What are the side effects of Trimethoprim BP?

The most common side effects of Trimethoprim BP are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, headache, and dizziness.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used during pregnancy?

The safety of Trimethoprim BP during pregnancy has not been established. It should be used with caution during pregnancy and only if clearly needed.

What should I do if I experience side effects from Trimethoprim BP?

If you experience side effects from Trimethoprim BP, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice. You may need to reduce your dose or stop taking the medicine altogether.

How should I take Trimethoprim BP?

Take Trimethoprim BP exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take it at the same time each day, with or without food. Do not take more or less than directed.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Trimethoprim BP?

You should not drink alcohol while taking Trimethoprim BP as it may increase your risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks before consuming alcohol while taking Trimethoprim BP.

Is it safe for children to take Trimethoprim BP?

Trimethoprim BP is safe for children to take, however it should only be used when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor before giving Trimethoprim BP to children.

What should I do if I forget to take my dose of Trimethoprim BP?

If you forget to take your dose of Trimethoprim BP, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.

What should I do if I accidentally take an extra dose of Trimethoprim BP?

If you take an extra dose of Trimethoprim BP, contact your doctor or pharmacist. You may need to have your blood monitored or receive other medical treatment.

What should I do if I experience severe stomach pain while taking Trimethoprim BP?

If you experience severe stomach pain while taking Trimethoprim BP, contact your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately. Stomach pain can be a sign of a serious side effect or reaction.

What should I do if I am allergic to Trimethoprim BP?

If you are allergic to Trimethoprim BP, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor immediately. You may need to receive medical treatment for your allergic reaction.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used to treat urinary tract infections?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can be used to treat urinary tract infections. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

What should I do if I experience itching or rash while taking Trimethoprim BP?

If you experience itching or rash while taking Trimethoprim BP, talk to your doctor for advice. It may be a sign of an allergic reaction or a side effect of the medicine.

Can Trimethoprim BP cause diarrhea?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can cause diarrhea. If you experience diarrhea, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Does Trimethoprim BP affect birth control?

Trimethoprim BP may decrease the effectiveness of birth control medicines. Talk to your doctor about the use of effective birth control while taking this medicine.

Are there any other medications that I should not take while taking Trimethoprim BP?

It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including any over the counter medicines that you are taking. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Can I take ibuprofen or acetaminophen while taking Trimethoprim BP?

You can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen while taking Trimethoprim BP. However, it is important to take these medicines at least two hours apart from Trimethoprim BP to avoid interactions.

Is Trimethoprim BP available over the counter?

No, Trimethoprim BP is only available with a prescription. It cannot be purchased over the counter.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used to treat strep throat?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can be used to treat strep throat. However, it cannot be used to treat viral infections.

Can Trimethoprim BP cause stomach upset?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can cause stomach upset. If you experience stomach upset, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Can I take Trimethoprim BP if I am breastfeeding?

You should talk to your doctor before taking Trimethoprim BP if you are breastfeeding. Trimethoprim BP can pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in nursing babies.

Does Trimethoprim BP interact with any other medications?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can interact with some other medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over the counter medicines.

What should I do if I experience a fever while taking Trimethoprim BP?

If you experience a fever while taking Trimethoprim BP, contact your doctor immediately. A fever can be a sign of an allergic reaction or a side effect of the medicine.

Is Trimethoprim BP safe for long term use?

Trimethoprim BP should only be used for the length of time prescribed by your doctor. Long term use of Trimethoprim BP can lead to resistance in the bacteria, making the medicine less effective.

Can Trimethoprim BP cause yeast infections?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can cause yeast infections. If you experience frequent yeast infections while taking Trimethoprim BP, talk to your doctor for advice.

Is Trimethoprim BP more effective than other antibiotics?

Trimethoprim BP may be more effective than other antibiotics depending on the type of infection being treated. Your doctor will be able to determine the best treatment for your specific infection.

What are the most common side effects of Trimethoprim BP?

The most common side effects of Trimethoprim BP are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, headache, and dizziness.

Can Trimethoprim BP be taken with milk?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can be taken with milk. It may reduce the effectiveness of the medicine if it is taken at the same time as milk or other dairy products.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used to treat gonorrhea?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can be used to treat gonorrhea. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

Is Trimethoprim BP safe to take if I have diabetes?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP is generally safe to take if you have diabetes. However, you should talk to your doctor about your medical history before taking this medicine.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used for teeth infections?

No, Trimethoprim BP is not effective in treating teeth infections as it does not penetrate well into the gums. Your dentist may prescribe a different antibiotic to treat a tooth infection.

Can Trimethoprim BP cause kidney problems?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can cause kidney problems. If you experience any signs of kidney problems while taking Trimethoprim BP, contact your doctor immediately.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used to treat bacterial meningitis?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can be used to treat bacterial meningitis. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection.

Can I take Trimethoprim BP if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can be used to treat bacterial infections in people with high blood pressure. However, you should talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking before using Trimethoprim BP.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used to treat acne?

No, Trimethoprim BP is not indicated for the treatment of acne. Talk to your doctor about other treatments that may be available to treat your acne.

Can Trimethoprim BP be used to treat urinary tract infections in cats?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can be used to treat urinary tract infections in cats. Your veterinarian will be able to prescribe the appropriate dose for your pet.

Does Trimethoprim BP affect blood sugar levels?

Yes, Trimethoprim BP can cause a change in blood sugar levels. It is important to monitor your blood sugar levels closely if you are taking this medicine.

Should I take Trimethoprim BP with food?

It is not necessary to take Trimethoprim BP with food, however taking it with a light meal may reduce the risk of stomach discomfort. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best way to take this medicine.