Medical Microbiology Antibacterial antibiotics

Sulphonamides and trimethoprim

Topic overview

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Sulphonamides competitively inhibit dihydropteroate synthase, while trimethoprim inhibits dihydrofolate reductase. Each drug is bacteriostatic alone; together, their sequential blockade of the folate pathway produces a synergistic bactericidal effect. Co-trimoxazole combines sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. The lesson covers its spectrum and clinical uses, including urinary infections and Pneumocystis pneumonia, alongside selected uses of individual sulphonamides. It also reviews resistance mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and important safety considerations, such as hypersensitivity, blood-related toxicity, hyperkalaemia, and risks in neonates and pregnancy. Interactions, renal dose considerations, and monitoring are included to support a structured understanding of these medicines.

Learning objectives

What you'll learn

  • Describe how sulphonamides and trimethoprim inhibit successive steps in folate synthesis.
  • Explain why combining the drugs can produce a bactericidal effect.
  • Identify key resistance mechanisms and clinical uses of co-trimoxazole and selected sulphonamides.
  • Recognize important adverse effects, contraindications, interactions, and monitoring considerations.
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