Emtrim Tablet 480mg (Co-Trimoxazole) x1000

Emtrim Tablet 480mg contains Co-Trimoxazole, a powerful dual-action antibiotic combining trimethoprim (80mg) and sulfamethoxazole (400mg). This broad-spectrum antimicrobial effectively treats various bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial growth through two complementary mechanisms. Emtrim provides reliable treatment for respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal, and skin infections with proven clinical efficacy.

Uses

Emtrim Tablet 480mg is primarily used for treating urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections including bronchitis and pneumonia, gastrointestinal infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and otitis media. It’s also effective for preventing and treating Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in immunocompromised patients. Emtrim serves as an excellent treatment option for infections caused by susceptible bacteria resistant to other antibiotics.

Benefits

• Broad-spectrum coverage against many common pathogens
• Dual mechanism of action reduces resistance development
• Effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
• Reaches therapeutic concentrations in multiple body tissues
• Cost-effective treatment option
• Available in convenient tablet formulation
• Proven efficacy in numerous infection types
• Suitable for both treatment and prophylaxis

How It Works

Emtrim works through a synergistic dual mechanism. Sulfamethoxazole inhibits bacterial synthesis of dihydrofolic acid, while trimethoprim blocks the production of tetrahydrofolic acid by inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase. This sequential blockade of folate synthesis prevents bacteria from producing essential nucleic acids and proteins, resulting in bacteriostatic action that becomes bactericidal at sufficient concentrations.

Duration of Action

Emtrim begins showing antimicrobial activity within 1-2 hours after administration. Peak blood levels occur 2-4 hours after dosing, with therapeutic concentrations maintained for approximately 12 hours. The medication achieves steady-state levels after 2-3 days of regular dosing. Complete resolution of infection symptoms typically requires 5-14 days of treatment, depending on infection severity and location.

Dosage

Side Effects

Common side effects of Emtrim may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and skin rashes. Some patients experience photosensitivity reactions with sun exposure. Less common effects include headache, depression, and allergic skin reactions. Rare but serious side effects include blood disorders, liver damage, severe skin reactions, and kidney problems that require immediate medical attention.

Warning

Discontinue Emtrim Tablet and seek immediate medical attention if you develop skin rash, sore throat, fever, joint pain, persistent cough, or unusual bleeding/bruising. Patients with known sulfonamide allergy should not take Emtrim. Use with extreme caution in elderly patients, those with impaired kidney or liver function, or G6PD deficiency. Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Emtrim Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it may cause jaundice in newborns and interfere with bilirubin binding. It should be avoided near term and in nursing mothers as it passes into breast milk and may cause adverse effects in infants, particularly those with G6PD deficiency or hyperbilirubinemia.

Interaction

• May increase effects of oral anticoagulants (warfarin)
• Can increase phenytoin levels, risking toxicity
• Potentiates hypoglycemic effects of sulfonylureas
• Methotrexate levels may increase dramatically
• May reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives

Precaution

Maintain adequate fluid intake while taking Emtrim to prevent crystalluria. Monitor for signs of blood disorders during prolonged treatment. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sun protection. Patients with asthma, severe allergies, or G6PD deficiency require close monitoring. Regular blood counts and kidney/liver function tests are recommended during extended therapy periods.

Important Information

Complete the full course of Emtrim Tablet even if symptoms improve before completion. Monitor for superinfection signs like persistent diarrhea or new infections. Take with plenty of fluids to maintain adequate hydration. If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 3 days, contact your healthcare provider. Report any unusual symptoms promptly, especially rash, as this may indicate a serious reaction requiring immediate discontinuation.