Trimethoprim UTI Tablets

About Trimethoprim 200 mg Tablets

Trimethoprim antibiotics are primarily prescribed to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), like cystitis. It is usually the first line of defence against the condition, but can also be used as part of a long-term prevention strategy.

You can order trimethoprim tablets from Prescription Doctor following a short online consultation to assess your suitability for the medication. If your order is approved before 3pm on weekdays, we’ll dispatch your treatment for delivery the next day in discreet packaging.

Understanding Cystitis Before Treatment with Trimethoprim

Cystitis is a bacterial infection affecting the urinary tract. It is commonly referred to as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or water infection.

Risk Factors for Women

Women are at a higher risk of developing UTIs compared to men. This is due to anatomical differences, such as the shorter distance between the urethra and anus, as well as the length of the urethra itself in women.

How Cystitis Occurs

Cystitis is typically caused when bacteria, most commonly E. coli, enter the urethra and ascend into the bladder, causing inflammation.

Sexual Activity and Cystitis

Although not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), UTIs often occur following sexual intercourse. To minimise the risk, it’s advisable to urinate as soon as possible after sex to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra.

Other Causes of Cystitis

• Urinary Tract Obstructions: Such as bladder and kidney stones.
• Pregnancy: Pressure on the bladder can increase the risk of urinary tract infections.
• Foreign Bodies: Such as catheters, can also cause infection.
• Conditions like diabetes and multiple sclerosis can increase the likelihood of developing a UTI.

While less common, men can also develop cystitis. If symptoms are present, it’s crucial to consult a GP to determine the underlying cause.

Trimethoprim Uses

The most common use of trimethoprim is to treat bacterial infections such as UTIs, particularly cystitis in women. In some cases, it can also be prescribed for conditions such as acne or chest infections, though this will be done at the doctor’s discretion.

Long-Term Use for Recurrent Cystitis: For individuals who experience recurrent cystitis, Trimethoprim may be prescribed as a long-term preventive treatment.

Obtaining a Trimethoprim Prescription: Before you buy Trimethoprim online through Prescription Doctor, you’ll be required to answer a series of medical questions. This ensures our doctors can safely prescribe the medication for you. Prescription Doctor only offers trimethoprim antibiotics to treat cystitis.

How Does Trimethoprim Work?

Trimethoprim works by blocking the production of tetrahydrofolic (folic) acid, a key ingredient that bacteria need to survive. This means the bacteria are unable to replicate and spread further, effectively cutting off the infection at its source. Because of its effect on the body, the medication is sometimes associated with low levels of folic acid in the blood.

Like other antibiotic treatments, it is essential to complete your entire course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms subside. If you do not complete your antibiotic treatment course as prescribed, you could increase the risk of the infection returning.

Sometimes, your doctor may require a urine sample to determine whether the bacterium is resistant to Trimethoprim or not.

How Long Does it Take for Trimethoprim to Work?

You should start to feel better within a few days of taking trimethoprim UTI tablets, with some users reporting relief from symptoms, such as pain and discomfort, after just 24 hours. Even if you notice a significant improvement early on in your treatment, it’s essential to complete the entire course of antibiotics to prevent the infection from returning.

How Effective is Trimethoprim for UTI?

Clinical studies have found that a three-day course of trimethoprim antibiotics could result in a bacteria eradication rate of more than 90% when used to tackle uncomplicated cystitis, with a low risk of adverse effects. In general practice, the expected cure rate of the medication is between 85% and 90%.

When it comes to bacterial resistance, one trial found that trimethoprim was ineffective against 29.8% of E. coli and Klebsiella (common causes of UTIs) cases. If you do find that the medication isn’t working for you, there are alternative treatments available.

Who Can Take Trimethoprim Antibiotics?

Trimethoprim tablets can be prescribed to most adults, though the medication is not suitable for everyone. For example, you should not take the medication if you:

• Have had an allergic reaction to trimethoprim
• Deal with anaemia or low levels of folic acid in your bloodstream
• Suffer from kidney or liver issues
• Have porphyria or any other blood disorder
• Are trying to get pregnant

If any of the above applies to you, or you’re unsure about which treatment is most appropriate, it’s important to consult a doctor.

Trimethoprim Allergic Reaction

Do not take Trimethoprim UTI tablets if you are allergic to trimethoprim or any of the ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

This treatment contains lactose. Please contact your doctor before using this medicine if you have a known lactose intolerance.

If you experience signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, stop taking the medicine and consult your doctor as soon as possible. Seek emergency medical attention if necessary.

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Hives
• Skin rash
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue and throat

How to Take Trimethoprim Tablets

Trimethoprim must be swallowed whole with a glass of water, so be sure not to chew or break the tablets. The medication can be taken with or without food. It’s essential that you always take trimethoprim tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Trimethoprim Dose for UTI

The most common dose of trimethoprim for UTIs is 200 mg twice daily (2 x 200 mg tablets) for 3-7 days. More complicated or severe infections can take up to 14 days to clear. If you are prescribed trimethoprim for recurrent cystitis, the usual dose is 100 mg once a day, following exposure to an infection trigger.

Should you decide to take trimethoprim tablets as a preventive measure, you may be advised to keep going with the treatment for up to six months.

What Should I Do If I Accidentally Take Too Much Trimethoprim?

If you accidentally take too much Trimethoprim, contact your doctor or nearest accident and emergency department.

Trimethoprim Side Effects and Cautions

Like most medications, trimethoprim can cause side effects. These include:

• Changes in liver enzymes
• Headache
• Increase in blood creatinine and urea
• Increased bruising
• Irregular heartbeat
• Itching
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and whites of eyes)
• Muscle cramps and pains
• Nausea
• Nose bleeds
• Sensitivity to light
• Skin rashes
• Sore throat
• Swollen tongue
• Vomiting
• Thrush
• Hives

A more complete list of trimethoprim side effects can be found in the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are struggling to manage yours effectively, you should contact your doctor, who may be able to recommend an alternative treatment.

If you experience any side effects, whether listed above or in the patient information leaflet, inform your doctor or consult a pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trimethoprim 200mg Tablets