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A single-entry antibiotic that can be used on its own or in combination with other medications for cystitis and a wide range of bacterial infections. Trimethoprim can be obtained via prescription.
A word on cystitis
Cystitis or infection of the urinary bladder is a common issue impacting 30% of women at least once in their lifetime. It is usually characterized by symptoms of painful urination, pelvic discomfort and low-grade fever. Other than bacterial cystitis resulting predominantly from E.coli, gallbladder inflammation can be drug-related, foreign-body-induced, like prolonged use of catheters, and sometimes associated with systemic conditions like diabetes.
What is Trimethoprim
Trimethoprim is an FDA-approved antibiotic with antibacterial and antimalarial properties that can be used on its own or as a combination medication to treat uncomplicated bacterial cystitis. It is regarded as an effective treatment option against acute, symptomatic UTIs caused by E.Coli while at the same time showing a favourable response to Enterobacter Species, Staphylococcus and Klebsiella Pneumonia. While previously being marketed as a combination medication, recently, it has been marketed as a single-entry product for urinary tract complications.
Working Mechanism for Cystitis
The process of cystitis is initiated by the colonization of the periurethral mucosa ( lining the wall of the urethra ) by bacteria from faecal or vaginal flora that eventually ascend to the urinary bladder and eventually invade the tissues in the urinary tract. While cystitis presents predominantly in the urinary bladder, it can gradually progress into the other parts of the tract and present as a full-blown urinary tract infection.Trimethoprim inhibits the bacteria from forming DHFR ( dihydrofolate reductase ), a critical enzyme that helps them survive and that catalyzes the formation of THF ( tetrahydrofolic acid), a crucial component of bacterial DNA.
The result is the prevention of bacterial DNA synthesis and, ultimately, their eradication from the tract regions.
How to use Trimethoprim
Trimethoprim comes in tablet and liquid formulations. Tablet Trimethoprim comes in strengths of 100 mg and 200 mg. Liquid Trimethoprim is available in 50mg/5ml suspension. The dosage of Trimethoprim is usually 200 mg twice a day under the physician’s guidance till your symptoms get better. The prevention dose is 100 mg /day, with the overall dosage depending on your age, the condition of your kidneys and tolerance to the medicine.
Side Effects and Drug Interactions
Some of the common side effects associated with Trimethoprim are
- Nausea
- Joint or muscle pain
- A general feeling of discomfort
- Drugs like rifampicin, metformin and Warfarin can interact when used concomitantly with Trimethoprim.
Rarely it can result in white patches in the mouth or vaginal discharge. Contact your physician if the side effects persist or increase in intensity and get urgent medical attention.
Contraindications
Trimethoprim is contraindicated in
- People allergic to the medication.
- In pregnant women as it can impact the fetus.
- In people with liver complications like jaundice or hepatic failure.
- In less than six-week-old infants.
How to buy Trimethoprim
Trimethoprim is a prescription medication that can be obtained from pharmacies or GP offices with retail counters. Further, you can order it from online pharmaceutical companies that will deliver the medicine to your door. Make sure you choose a verified website for the online purchase that will help you get authentic medication well within its expiry period.
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