Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (pronunciation: trye-METH-oh-prim - sul-fa-METH-ox-uh-zohl), also known as TMP-SMX, Bactrim, Septra, and co-trimoxazole, is a combination of two antibiotic drugs: trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.

Etymology

The name "trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole" is derived from the names of the two drugs that make up the medication. "Trimethoprim" is derived from the Greek words "tri-", meaning three, "meth-", meaning methyl, and "prim", meaning primitive or primary. "Sulfamethoxazole" is derived from "sulfa", referring to its sulfonamide group, and "methoxazole", referring to its chemical structure.

Usage

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and ear infections. It is also used to prevent and treat Pneumocystis pneumonia in people with weakened immune systems.

Mechanism of Action

Trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole work together to inhibit the production of folic acid in bacteria, which is necessary for the synthesis of nucleic acids and the survival of the bacteria. Trimethoprim inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, an enzyme involved in the production of folic acid, while sulfamethoxazole inhibits dihydropteroate synthase, another enzyme involved in the same process.

Side Effects

Common side effects of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and skin rash. Serious side effects can include anemia, allergic reactions, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
Wikipedia's article - Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

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Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole