Trimethoprim

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About Trimethoprim

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antibiotics.

Trimethoprim is used to treat bacterial infections of the chest and urinary tract by killing or stopping the growth of the bacteria responsible.

Trimethoprim is available in tablet and liquid form.

It is also sometimes known as: Monotrim; Trimopan. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Trimethoprim

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you suffer from a blood disorder or porphyria
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to Take Trimethoprim

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Try to take this medicine at regular intervals, as directed by your doctor, to keep a steady level of Trimethoprim in your body.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Trimethoprim contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of Trimethoprim. If you stop taking this medicine too soon your infection may come back and could be more difficult to treat.
• This preparation may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Avoid bright sunlight and sunbeds and use a sun cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Trimethoprim.

Can Trimethoprim cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Tummy upset, feeling or being sick, itching.

Important: If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking Trimethoprim and contact your doctor as soon as possible for advice: Skin rash, fever (high temperature) accompanied by a sore throat, mouth ulcers or unusual bruising or bleeding. Also contact your doctor if you experience a headache accompanied by neck stiffness or a dislike of bright lights.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Trimethoprim

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 19/08/2005   

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