Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) 800/160mg Antibacterial Tablet 100's

Certainly! Here's an overview of Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) 800/160mg Antibacterial Tablets 100's:

Product Description:

Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) 800/160mg Tablets are an antibacterial combination medication consisting of two active ingredients: Sulfamethoxazole (800 mg) and Trimethoprim (160 mg). This combination works synergistically to inhibit the production of folic acid in bacteria, which is essential for their growth and reproduction. Cotrimoxazole is effective against a broad range of bacterial infections and is used for both treatment and prevention of infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

The 800 mg Sulfamethoxazole and 160 mg Trimethoprim combination provides a potent antibacterial effect and is typically taken as a tablet for oral administration. The package contains 100 tablets for convenient dosing.

Indications:

Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) is indicated for the treatment of the following infections:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Including both uncomplicated and complicated urinary tract infections.

• Respiratory tract infections: Such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis caused by susceptible bacteria.

• Gastrointestinal infections: Including infections caused by Shigella, Salmonella, or Escherichia coli (E. coli).

• Ear infections (otitis media) caused by bacterial pathogens.

• Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP): Cotrimoxazole is used for both the treatment and prophylaxis (prevention) of PCP, particularly in immunocompromised individuals (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS).

• Traveler's diarrhea: Caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli.

• Prophylaxis for certain infections in immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV/AIDS, to prevent pneumocystis pneumonia.

Dosage:

The dosage of Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) may vary depending on the type of infection being treated. Below are the general dosage guidelines:

• For adults:

  • Standard dose for infections:

    • 1 tablet (800 mg Sulfamethoxazole / 160 mg Trimethoprim) every 12 hours.

• For urinary tract infections (UTIs):

  • 1 tablet (800 mg Sulfamethoxazole / 160 mg Trimethoprim) every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the infection.

• For Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP):

  • 1 tablet (800 mg Sulfamethoxazole / 160 mg Trimethoprim) every 12 hours for 21 days.

  • Prophylaxis for PCP: 1 tablet once daily or every other day, depending on physician recommendations.

• For children (6 to 12 years):

  • Half the adult dose (400 mg Sulfamethoxazole / 80 mg Trimethoprim) every 12 hours, or as directed by a doctor.

• For severe infections: The dose may be adjusted based on the severity and type of infection, as well as the patient’s age and renal function.

Note: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the product label. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.

Side Effects:

Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common and less common side effects include:

• Common side effects:

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Diarrhea

  • Rash or itching

  • Loss of appetite

  • Headache

• Serious side effects (less common but requiring medical attention):

  • Severe allergic reactions: Including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis).

  • Severe skin reactions: Such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TENS).

  • Blood disorders: Agranulocytosis (a dangerous drop in white blood cell count), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), or megaloblastic anemia.

  • Liver damage: Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and abdominal pain.

  • Kidney problems: Symptoms include changes in urination (e.g., reduced urine output or blood in the urine), swelling, or fatigue.

• Electrolyte disturbances: Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels in the blood) can occur, particularly in patients with kidney dysfunction.

If any of these serious side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Contraindications:

Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) should be avoided or used with caution in the following situations:

• Hypersensitivity: If you are allergic to Sulfamethoxazole, Trimethoprim, or any component of the product, do not use this medication.

• Severe liver disease: Patients with severe liver dysfunction should not use this medication, as it may worsen liver conditions.

• Severe kidney disease: Cotrimoxazole should not be used in patients with severe renal impairment, as it may increase the risk of toxic reactions due to reduced elimination.

• Blood disorders: Those with a history of blood dyscrasias (e.g., agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia) should avoid this medication.

• Pregnancy: Cotrimoxazole should be avoided during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, due to the risk of birth defects. It should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

• Breastfeeding: Cotrimoxazole can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. It should generally be avoided during breastfeeding unless prescribed by a doctor.

• Folate deficiency: Individuals with folate deficiency or those taking folate antagonists should use this medication with caution, as Trimethoprim can interfere with folate metabolism.

• Newborns: Cotrimoxazole is contraindicated in neonates due to the risk of kernicterus, a type of brain damage caused by high levels of bilirubin.

Precautions:

• Renal function: Use Cotrimoxazole with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dosage adjustments may be required for individuals with kidney problems.

• Monitoring: Regular blood tests may be necessary during prolonged treatment to monitor for blood disorders, kidney function, and liver function.

• Drug interactions: Cotrimoxazole can interact with other medications, including:

  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Cotrimoxazole can potentiate the effects of anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding.

  • Methotrexate: Concurrent use with Methotrexate may increase the risk of toxic effects.

  • Diuretics: Use with caution in combination with diuretics, especially those that can cause hyperkalemia.

Storage:

• Store Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) tablets at room temperature (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F).

• Keep the tablets in a tightly closed container, protected from moisture and light, and out of the reach of children.

This provides a general overview of Cotrimoxazole (Combizole) 800/160mg Antibacterial Tablets. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the product label. If you experience any side effects or have concerns about the medication, consult your healthcare provider.