Trimethoprim is a medication used to treat urinary tract infections caused by certain bacteria. It works by blocking a process that bacteria need to grow and multiply, helping to clear the infection. You typically take it as a tablet, with a common starting dose of 100 mg every 12 hours or 200 mg once a day, usually for 10 days. One important thing to know is that it should not be used if you are allergic to it or have a specific type of anemia caused by a lack of folate. Additionally, if you have kidney problems, especially with a creatinine clearance of less than 15 mL/min, you should avoid using this medication.
✦
Uses
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
- Infections caused by Escherichia coli.
- Infections caused by Proteus mirabilis.
- Infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae.
- Infections caused by Enterobacter species.
- Infections caused by coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species.
◷
Dosage
100 mg every 12 hours for 10 days. 200 mg every 24 hours for 10 days.
Not recommended for creatinine clearance less than 15 mL/min. 50 mg every 12 hours for creatinine clearance 15 to 30 mL/min.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
⚠
Side effects
Common
rashitchingexfoliative dermatitisGastrointestinal: nauseavomitingglossitisHematologic: thrombocytopenialeukopeniaNeurologic: aseptic meningitis
Serious
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
🛑
Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Serious allergic reactions may occur rarely.
- Can interfere with blood cell production.
- Signs of serious blood disorders include sore throat and fever.
- Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea may occur.
- Monitor for diarrhea after antibiotic use.
⇄
Drug interactions
- Phenytoinincreased half-life and decreased clearanceCaution
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
MedDataTool