Sutaprim D.S. Tablets

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not use this medication without consulting your doctor. Always complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.

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Sutaprim D.S. (Co-trimoxazole): A Guide to the Antibiotic Tablet

Manufacturer: SEDICO Pharmaceutical Co., Egypt

Category: Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic (Sulfonamide-Diaminopyrimidine Combination)

Active Ingredients (per Double Strength tablet):

• Sulphamethoxazole: 800 mg
• Trimethoprim: 160 mg

This combination is also known as Co-trimoxazole.

Summary

Sutaprim D.S. is a powerful combination antibiotic that provides a bactericidal (bacteria-killing) effect against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It contains two active ingredients, Sulphamethoxazole and Trimethoprim, which work together synergistically to stop bacterial growth. It is prescribed for various infections affecting the respiratory tract, urinary system, gastrointestinal tract, and skin.

Mechanism of Action: How Does Sutaprim D.S. Work?

Sutaprim D.S. has a unique dual-action mechanism that targets the folic acid synthesis pathway in bacteria, which is essential for their survival and replication.

1. Sulphamethoxazole: This sulfonamide antibiotic blocks an early step in the pathway, preventing bacteria from producing a substance called dihydrofolic acid.
2. Trimethoprim: This ingredient blocks a later step, preventing the conversion of dihydrofolic acid into tetrahydrofolic acid, the active form of folic acid.

By blocking the same pathway at two different points, the combination is significantly more effective than either drug alone, and it reduces the likelihood of bacteria developing resistance.

Therapeutic Indications: When to Use Sutaprim D.S.

Sutaprim D.S. is indicated for the treatment of various bacterial infections, including:

• Respiratory Tract Infections: Such as bronchitis.
• Genitourinary Tract Infections: Such as urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Gastrointestinal Infections: Caused by susceptible bacteria like Shigella or E. coli.
• Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Including abscesses and wound infections.

Dosage and Administration

Important: Treatment should continue for at least 5 days or as directed by your physician.

• Adults: One (1) Double Strength tablet twice daily.
• Adults (in severe infections): The dose may be increased to three (3) Double Strength tablets daily, taken in two divided doses (e.g., 1.5 tablets twice daily).
• Children (6 - 12 years): Half (1/2) a Double Strength tablet twice daily.

Precautions and Contraindications

Do not use Sutaprim D.S. in the following cases:

• Allergy: Known hypersensitivity to Sulphamethoxazole, Trimethoprim, or other sulfa drugs.
• Liver or Kidney Disease: Should not be administered in cases of marked liver parenchymal damage or acute renal failure.
• Pregnancy: This preparation should not be used during pregnancy.
• Prolonged Treatment: Regular haematological (blood) examinations should be performed during prolonged courses of treatment to monitor for potential side effects.

Potential Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, some side effects have been reported, though they are rare:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Skin rash

If you experience a skin rash, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately, as it could be a sign of a more serious reaction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why do I need to take two different antibiotics in one tablet?

Sulphamethoxazole and Trimethoprim are combined because they work together (synergistically) to create a much more powerful antibacterial effect than either could achieve alone. This also makes it harder for bacteria to become resistant to the treatment.

Should I take Sutaprim D.S. with food?

Taking Sutaprim D.S. with a full glass of water is important to prevent kidney problems. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce the risk of nausea or vomiting.

What does "D.S." stand for?

"D.S." stands for Double Strength. It indicates that the tablet contains twice the amount of active ingredients as a standard Sutaprim tablet (800mg/160mg vs. 400mg/80mg).

Sources

1. Co-trimoxazole Information - Drugs.com
2. Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole - StatPearls, NCBI
3. Official Product Leaflet for Sutaprim D.S. Tablets.