Uses

Cotrimoxazole is used to treat certain bacterial infections, such as pneumonia (a lung infection), bronchitis (infection of the tubes leading to the lungs), and infections of the urinary tract, ears, and intestines. It also is used to treat 'travelers' diarrhea.

Composition

Each tablet of Co-trimoxazole 480 mg contains: active ingredients: sulfamethoxazole-400 mg, trimethoprim-80 mg; excipients: microcrystalline cellulose, maize starch, sodium starch glycolate, magnesium stearate.

Dosage and Administration

Co-trimoxazole is usually given by mouth in an adult dose of 960 mg (trimethoprim 160 mg and sulfamethoxazole 800 mg) twice daily; in severe infections 2.88 g daily in 2 divided doses has been given. Lower doses are given for long-term treatment and in patients with renal impairment. Doses of co-trimoxazole to be given twice daily to children are: (as pediatric suspension) -from 6 weeks to 5 months of age, 120 mg; 6 months to 5 years, 240 mg; (as tablets) – 6 to 12 years, 480 mg. Alternatively, children may be given a dose of 24 mg/kg twice daily. Co-trimoxazole should not generally be given to infants below 6 weeks of age because of the risk of kernicterus from the sulfonamide component, although it may be used in infants from 4 weeks of age for the treatment or prophylaxis of pneumocystis pneumonia.