Trimethoprim with Sulphadiazine

Trimethoprim with Sulphadiazine is a combination of antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections. Trimethoprim inhibits bacterial folate synthesis, while Sulphadiazine acts by inhibiting bacterial dihydrofolic acid formation.

Indications

-Urinary Tract Infections: Effective against urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria. -Respiratory Tract Infections: Used for the treatment of respiratory infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis. -Gastrointestinal Infections: May be prescribed for certain bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal tract.

Dosage

-Dosage is determined based on the specific infection, patient characteristics, and susceptibility of the causative bacteria. Administration is usually oral, with or without food. -Adults and children above 12 yrs: 1 tab twice daily 6-12 yrs: 1/2 tab twice daily.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity: Patients with known hypersensitivity to trimethoprim, sulphadiazine, or sulfa drugs. -Severe Hepatic or Renal Impairment: Caution is advised in patients with severe liver or kidney dysfunction. -Hypersensitivity to Sulph- onamides. Pregnancy, lactation, jaundice, blood dyscrasias, renal impairment, neonates.

Special Precautions

-Blood Disorders: Monitor blood counts regularly, especially in patients with a history of blood disorders. -Folate Deficiency: Supplement folate in individuals at risk of deficiency, as trimethoprim may interfere with folate metabolism. Not recommended if creatinine clearance less than 15 ml/min and in elderly patients. Test blood regularly in long term therapy high fluid intake should be maintained. Folate deficiency.

Side Effects

-Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, rash, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Serious side effects are rare but may include blood disorders or severe skin reactions. -Crystalluria, allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea.

Drug Interactions

-Warfarin: Enhanced anticoagulant effects when used concomitantly with trimethoprim. -Methotrexate: Increased risk of methotrexate toxicity.