About cotrimoxazole
Sulfonamide antibiotic combination
Used for
- Treats certain bacterial infections, including Pneumocystis pneumonia.
- Prevents Pneumocystis pneumonia in people at increased risk.
Usual adult dose
Usually 10–20 mg/kg/day of trimethoprim, divided every 6–12 hours by intravenous infusion; dose depends on infection and kidney function.
Usual dose in children
Usually 8–12 mg/kg/day of trimethoprim, divided every 6–12 hours by intravenous infusion; dose depends on infection and age.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, or rash
- Low blood counts
- Raised potassium or kidney problems
- Rare severe skin reactions
Important warnings
- Serious allergic reactions and blood disorders can occur.
- Avoid with severe sulfonamide allergy or certain blood disorders.
- Dose adjustment and monitoring may be needed with kidney impairment.
- Infusion must be diluted and administered by healthcare professionals.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; folate-related risks are important, especially early pregnancy.
Breastfeeding
Passes into breast milk; may be unsuitable for premature, jaundiced, or ill infants.
Interactions
- Warfarin: may increase bleeding risk.
- Methotrexate: may increase toxicity.
- ACE inhibitors or spironolactone: may increase potassium.
- Phenytoin: may increase phenytoin effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.