Indications & Uses
Pharmacology
Cotrimoxazole is a broad-spectrum bactericidal agent effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some protozoa. It combines Trimethoprim and Sulphamethoxazole in a 1:5 ratio, which together produce their bactericidal effect by sequentially blocking two bacterial enzyme systems involved in the microorganism's biosynthesis of folinic acid.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
under 12 years. For 6 to 12 years, take 2 teaspoonfuls twice daily. For 6 months to 5 years, take 1 teaspoonful twice daily. For 6 weeks to 6 months, take 0.5 teaspoonful twice daily.
Dosage for other forms (2)
over 12 years. For mild to moderate infections, take 1 tablet twice daily. For severe infections, take 1.5 tablets twice daily. For long term therapy of more than 14 days, take 0.5 tablet twice daily. For gonorrhoea, take 2 tablets every 12 hours for two days, or 2.5 tablets followed by a further dose of 2.5 tablets after 8 hours.
over 12 years. For mild to moderate infections, take 2 tablets twice daily. For severe infections, take 2 tablets thrice daily. For long term therapy of more than 14 days, take 1 tablet twice daily.
Side Effects
Sulphamethoxazole-Trimethoprim is generally well tolerated. Rare but reported side effects include crystalluria, allergic reactions, haemolysis, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis. Milder effects such as malaise, headache, nausea, and vomiting may occur, but these are usually temporary and do not usually call for stopping treatment.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Prolonged treatment with full doses of sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim can lead to macrocytic anaemia, since the combination interferes with the conversion of folic acid to folinic acid. Should this occur, giving folinic acid will reverse it. In diabetic patients on a sulphonylurea drug, Sitrim should be used with caution, as it may potentiate the sulphonylurea's action.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to trimethoprim or to sulphonamide medicines rules out this drug, as does a confirmed diagnosis of megaloblastic anaemia caused by folate deficiency. It should also be avoided in patients with marked liver damage, blood disorders, severe kidney impairment, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy and while breastfeeding: sulphonamides cross the placenta and pass into breast milk, and may cause kernicterus.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Storage
Store Sulphamethoxazole + Trimethoprim below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Common questions about Zolitrim 200 mg
What is Zolitrim 200 mg Suspension?
Zolitrim 200 mg Suspension is a medicine that contains Sulphamethoxazole + Trimethoprim. It is made by Globex Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It belongs to the Anti-diarrhoeal antimicrobial drugs group of medicines.
What is Zolitrim used for?
Zolitrim is used for: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Sinusitis, Urinary Tract Infection, Respiratory Tract Infection, Skin and Soft Tissue Infection, Sepsis, Otitis Media.
What are the side effects of Zolitrim?
Sulphamethoxazole-Trimethoprim is generally well tolerated. Rare but reported side effects include crystalluria, allergic reactions, haemolysis, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis.
Can I take Zolitrim during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Pregnancy and while breastfeeding: sulphonamides cross the placenta and pass into breast milk, and may cause kernicterus. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How should I store Zolitrim?
Store Sulphamethoxazole + Trimethoprim below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Do I need a prescription for Zolitrim?
Zolitrim is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.