Millions of people around the world take trimethoprim to treat a variety of infections, but some people should not take it.

Trimethoprim can interact with other medications and cause harmful side effects in some people.

What is Trimethoprim?

Trimethoprim is an antibiotic. It’s used to treat bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and ear infections.

Trimethoprim is also available combined with another antibiotic called sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole). This is known by the brand names Septrin, Bactrim, and Novapirina.

Co-trimoxazole is used to treat more serious infections, such as pneumonia, septicemia, and toxoplasmosis. It’s also sometimes used to treat skin infections, such as cellulitis and impetigo.

Trimethoprim can be bought over the counter from pharmacies to treat urinary tract infections in adults and children aged 16 years and over. You’ll need to have an assessment with a pharmacist first to make sure it’s the right treatment for you.

Co-trimoxazole is only available on prescription. It can be prescribed by a GP or hospital doctor.

How Does Trimethoprim Work?

Trimethoprim works by inhibiting the production of tetrahydrofolic acid, a key component in the synthesis of nucleic acids.

This action interferes with the ability of bacteria to synthesize new DNA and RNA, ultimately leading to cell death.

Here is a List of Who Should Not Take Trimethoprim And Why:

• People with kidney disease: Trimethoprim can cause kidney damage and should be used with caution in people with kidney disease.
• People with liver disease: Trimethoprim can cause liver damage and should be used with caution in people with liver disease.
• People with diabetes: Trimethoprim can raise blood sugar levels and should be used with caution in people with diabetes.
• People with a history of allergies: Trimethoprim can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have a history of allergies, you should be cautious when taking trimethoprim.
• Pregnant women: Trimethoprim should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
• Nursing mothers: Trimethoprim passes into breast milk and may cause side effects in nursing babies. If you are breastfeeding, you should not take trimethoprim.
• Children: Trimethoprim should be used with caution in children and only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.
• The elderly: Trimethoprim should be used with caution in the elderly and only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.

If you have any of these conditions, you should talk to your doctor before taking trimethoprim.

You may still be able to take trimethoprim, but your doctor will need to monitor you closely for side effects.

What Are The Side Effects of Trimethoprim For Pregnant Women?

Trimethoprim is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. However, as with all medications, there are potential risks involved.

The most common side effects reported in pregnant women include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Skin rash

These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own.

However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should speak to your doctor.

Trimethoprim should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Conclusion

Trimethoprim is a medication used to treat a variety of infections. It can be prescribed for people with conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, and UTIs.

There are some people who should not take trimethoprim because of potential health risks.

If you have any questions about whether or not you can take trimethoprim, speak to your doctor before starting the medication.