Trimethoprim
Brand Names
Primsol, Proloprim, TrimpexWhat is Trimethoprim
Trimethoprim is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body. This medication is effective in the treatment of bladder infection caused by certain bacteria.
Side effects of Trimethoprim
Trimethoprim common side effects may incklude:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea
If you have noticed any of the following side effects, contact your doctor at once:
- rash (hives)
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- sore throat
- fever or chills
- mouth sores
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- paleness
- joint aches
- bluish-colored fingernails, lips, or skin
Indication
Trimethoprim eliminates bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. It is used in combination with other drugs to treat certain types of pneumonia. It also is used to treat 'travelers' diarrhea.'
Precautions
Please, stop taking trimethoprim if you:
- are allergic to trimethoprim, sulfa drugs, diuretics ('water pills', oral diabetes medications, or any other drugs.
- take any other prescription and non-prescription medications, especially phenytoin (Dilantin) and vitamins.
- have or have ever had anemia or liver or kidney disease.
- are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Dosage forms
The recommended dose of trimethoprim for adults
| Disease/condition | Dose |
| Cystitis | 100 mg orally every 12 hours or 200 mg orally every 24 hours for 10 days. |
| Cystitis Prophylaxis | 100 mg orally at bedtime for 6 weeks to 6 months. |
| Pneumocystis Pneumonia | 15 to 20 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 6 hours (in addition to dapsone 100 mg daily). Therapy should be continued for approximately 14 days in non-HIV patients and 21 days in HIV patients. |
The recommended dose of trimethoprim for children
| Disease/condition | Dose |
| Cystitis |
2 months-12 years: 2-3 mg/kg every 12 hours for 10 days. The efficacy of trimethoprim as a single agent has not been established in children under 12 years. 12-18 years: 100 mg orally every 12 hours or 200 mg orally every 24 hours for 10 days. |
| Otitis Media | >=6 months: 5 mg/kg every 12 hours for 10 days (investigational) |
