Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole is primarily used for the management of toxoplasmosis, a serious parasitic infection. This combination medication belongs to the class of antiparasitic and antibacterial medicines.
Aside from toxoplasmosis, it is also used in the prophylaxis and management of malaria, particularly chloroquine-resistant malaria, and in the management and prevention of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, a fungal lung infection common in immunocompromised patients.
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Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole belongs to the category of combination antimicrobial agents.
Pyrimethamine is an antiparasitic agent. It works by blocking an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) in the parasites. The blockage stops the conversion of a compound called dihydrofolate into another compound named tetrahydrofolate, which is critical for the parasites to reproduce and survive.
Sulphamethoxazole is an antibacterial agent. It acts by inhibiting another enzyme known as dihydropteroate synthase, involved in an early step of folic acid synthesis, further reducing the folic acid available to the parasites and bacteria.
Doctor of Medicine
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole is available for use via the oral route in the form of tablets.
This combination is typically prescribed for adults and children above the age of 2 months.
Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole is not intended for patients with known hypersensitivity to pyrimethamine, sulfonamides or any other components of the formulation.
It is also contraindicated in cases of megaloblastic anaemia due to folate deficiency.
This combination may interact with several medications, including other antifolate agents (such as methotrexate), anticoagulants (like warfarin), and certain antibiotics (such as penicillin).
An overdose of Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, anorexia, pruritus, and photosensitivity. If you observe these symptoms, inform your doctor right away.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. However, skip it if the time for the next dose is near. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless, resolving when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water may help manage symptoms of nausea and diarrhoea.
Applying a cool compress can alleviate skin reactions like rash or pruritus.
This combination might affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery due to potential side effects like dizziness or lightheadedness. If you notice such effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole use is contraindicated near term as it can cause problems in neonates. It should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. It passes into breast milk and may cause adverse effects in infants. Always consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Caution should be exercised when using Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole in patients with G6PD deficiency, folate deficiency and renal or hepatic impairment.
Regularly monitor your diet to ensure it contains adequate nutrients to support overall health as this medication can affect your appetite.
As with any medication, maintaining a balanced lifestyle with appropriate physical activities is beneficial.
Frequently asked questions
No, Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole is not a steroid. It is a combination medication comprising two active ingredients, pyrimethamine and sulphamethoxazole, which are antiparasitic and antibacterial respectively.
Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole does not specifically target sleep mechanisms. However, certain side effects like dizziness and headache might impact the quality of sleep in some individuals.
Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole is not associated with affecting fertility in humans. However, always discuss any concerns about medications and fertility with your doctor.
Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole is typically prescribed to be taken daily for certain durations, depending on the specific infection being managed. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
The timing may vary, but the clinical response to Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole is usually seen within a few days of starting treatment for most susceptible infections.
The timing for taking Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole can vary depending on the specific treatment regimen outlined by your doctor. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding when to take your medication.
It can cause side effects such as nausea and anorexia which might indirectly influence your appetite.
Pyrimethamine + Sulphamethoxazole in other salts
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