Here are some important facts about trimethoprim
Has a trimethoprim prescription been given to you or someone in your family? If so, you may have some questions about this medication.
At Chemist2U, we’re making medication easy. To help you better understand trimethoprim, we’ll provide you with some important information about it that you can discuss with your doctor, as well as insights on how you can conveniently order home delivery of your prescription medications.
In this article
How does trimethoprim work?
Trimethoprim is an antibiotic typically used to treat bacterial infections. It is generally prescribed for both UTI treatment and prevention.
The trimethoprim mechanism of action involves inhibiting a critical enzyme in bacteria known as dihydrofolate reductase. This enzyme is essential for bacteria to produce tetrahydrofolate, a vital component needed for their DNA and protein production.
By blocking this enzyme, trimethoprim prevents bacteria from synthesising this necessary substance, thereby stopping their growth and reproduction.[1]
In some medications, trimethoprim is paired with sulfamethoxazole.[2] This combination is sold under names like Resprim Forte.[3] You can find trimethoprim as a standalone medication. It is available under brand names such as Triprim and Alprim.
How do you take trimethoprim?
The trimethoprim dosage given to you would vary based on the condition being treated. For UTI treatment, your doctor may prescribe you to take 300 mg daily.
It’s very important to strictly follow the prescribed dosage and course duration given by your doctor. Misusing broad-spectrum antibiotics like trimethoprim may contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a significant health concern that makes standard bacterial infections more challenging and costly to treat.[5]
Who can take trimethoprim?
Trimethoprim is usually prescribed as a UTI antibiotic.[6]
When combined with sulfamethoxazole, it may also be prescribed to address infections caused by specific bacteria and parasites. These include Pneumocystis jiroveci, Toxoplasma gondii, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).[7]
Moreover, for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, low-dose trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole may also be given to reduce the risk of complications.[8]
However, it’s also essential to understand who should avoid this medication. Trimethoprim may not be suitable for premature babies, infants under four months of age, or children under six years.[9] Additionally, trimethoprim must be avoided by those with severe blood disorders, anaemia, or significant kidney issues.[10]
Remember, discussing your medical history and current health with your doctor is crucial before starting with any urinary tract infection remedy like trimethoprim.
Side effects of trimethoprim
Common reactions can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. Some individuals may experience changes in taste, stomach pain, or skin sensitivities, such as itching or rash. Additional side effects also include increases in liver enzymes or changes in blood counts, such as low white blood cell, platelet, or sodium levels.[11]
It’s also possible to encounter high blood potassium or allergic reactions, so staying informed and vigilant is essential.[12]
Not all possible side effects are listed here, and individual experiences may vary. If you notice any adverse effects or changes in your health while taking trimethoprim, it is important to consult your doctor immediately.
Trimethoprim and other medications
Trimethoprim may affect or be affected by other medications, such as methotrexate, which is commonly used in treating certain types of cancer and arthritis, and digoxin, which is used in managing heart failure and arrhythmias.[13]
Also, if you’re using diuretics, which are commonly referred to as water tablets, or ACE inhibitors, which are typically prescribed for high blood pressure and heart conditions, it’s important to communicate this with your doctor. These drugs may alter potassium levels in the blood in combination with trimethoprim.[14]
Ensure that you have informed your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking or planning to take.
Medicines you should not use with trimethoprim
If you are on anticoagulants like warfarin, anticonvulsants such as phenytoin and phenobarbitone, or oral antidiabetic medications like tolbutamide, it’s crucial to discuss these with your doctor before taking trimethoprim. These drugs have a narrow margin between efficacy and toxicity, meaning small changes in their levels can lead to significant effects.[15]
Additionally, it’s important to inform your doctor about any other prescription drugs, supplements, or herbal remedies you’re using, as these may influence how your body responds to trimethoprim.
How to order trimethoprim through Chemist2U
We know how stressful it is to go back and forth to the pharmacy when you’re not feeling your best or swamped with errands. With us at Chemist2U, you are in control of your medication, and it’s always there when you need it. Here’s how you can order home delivery of your prescription medications:
- Download our app or use this website. We’ve streamlined the process to ensure accessing your medication is as easy as can be.
- Upload your prescriptions. With our platform, you can quickly upload your eScript for your prescription drugs.
- Add over-the-counter medication. Just like you would in a physical pharmacy, you can also browse through our extensive range of over-the-counter medications and general pharmacy products and add any additional items to your cart.
- Dispensed by local pharmacists. To ensure correctness, your order will be carefully filled by a trusted pharmacist from a partner pharmacy in your community.
- Delivered to your doorstep. We offer same-day delivery for the majority of medications. Simply place your order before the cutoff time, which is typically 2.00 p.m. but may vary in some locations. Note: A minority of products (inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via AusPost. Allow 5 to 7 business days.
If you have any general questions about your medications, try our Ask the Pharmacist feature to access general pharmacy advice. Our customer service team is happy to help with any order-related concerns.
Order home delivery of your prescription medications from Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513232/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513232/
[3] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/80826ab6-bac8-4f49-bd18-a53300ff01e5.pdf
[4] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/trimethoprim/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8422824/
[6] https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2023-PI-01982-1&d=20240228172310101
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3216436/
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3216436/
[9] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/6ee630e0-affc-41a7-acb4-a53300fea837.pdf
[10] https://www.nps.org.au/medicine-finder/alprim-tablets
[11] https://reference.medscape.com/drug/primsol-proloprim-trimethoprim-342571
[12] https://www.rxlist.com/trimethoprim/generic-drug.htm
[13] https://www.nps.org.au/medicine-finder/alprim-tablets
