Explain What Type Of Drug Is Trimethoprim And Sulfamethoxazole
1. What type of drug is trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and how does it work?
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) is an antibacterial drug, also classified as a metabolism inhibitor. This drug interferes with bacterial reproduction by preventing the bacteria from producing folic acid. Specifically, this drug prevents a specific enzyme from converting substances into folic acid, which is needed by the bacteria to make DNA and reproduce. Therefore, the bacteria do not have enough folic acid to make DNA and grow further. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is considered bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal. Bacteriostatic antibiotics prevent bacteria from growing until the body’s own white blood cells (WBCs) and antibodies get rid of them, and bactericidal antibiotics kill the bacteria directly. …show more content…
What precautions and actions will you teach her about this drug therapy?
As a precautionary measure, metabolism inhibitors should be avoided in any person who has a genetic disorder called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, which causes red blood cells to break. G6PD is most common among males of African-Americans and or Mediterranean decent. In addition, thiazide diuretics should not be prescribed with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim). Combining these drugs can greatly increase the risk of anemia and bleeding.
Other special considerations and precautions include skin care protection. The patient will be educated on how to reduce photosensitivity. Ways to reduce photosensitivity and possible sunburn includes avoiding direct sunlight, using sunscreen, and to wear protective clothing including a hat when in the sun is necessary. Educating the patient to drink a full glass of water when taking her sulfonamide or trimethoprim tablets, as well as increased fluids throughout the day is critical. Drinking an adequate amount of water with the patient’s medication is important to prevent the formation of crystals in the urine and or clogging the
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) is an antibacterial drug, also classified as a metabolism inhibitor. This drug interferes with bacterial reproduction by preventing the bacteria from producing folic acid. Specifically, this drug prevents a specific enzyme from converting substances into folic acid, which is needed by the bacteria to make DNA and reproduce. Therefore, the bacteria do not have enough folic acid to make DNA and grow further. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is considered bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal. Bacteriostatic antibiotics prevent bacteria from growing until the body’s own white blood cells (WBCs) and antibodies get rid of them, and bactericidal antibiotics kill the bacteria directly. …show more content…
What precautions and actions will you teach her about this drug therapy?
As a precautionary measure, metabolism inhibitors should be avoided in any person who has a genetic disorder called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, which causes red blood cells to break. G6PD is most common among males of African-Americans and or Mediterranean decent. In addition, thiazide diuretics should not be prescribed with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim). Combining these drugs can greatly increase the risk of anemia and bleeding.
Other special considerations and precautions include skin care protection. The patient will be educated on how to reduce photosensitivity. Ways to reduce photosensitivity and possible sunburn includes avoiding direct sunlight, using sunscreen, and to wear protective clothing including a hat when in the sun is necessary. Educating the patient to drink a full glass of water when taking her sulfonamide or trimethoprim tablets, as well as increased fluids throughout the day is critical. Drinking an adequate amount of water with the patient’s medication is important to prevent the formation of crystals in the urine and or clogging the