What are trimethoprim 100mg tablets used for?

In the pharmaceutical industry, Trimethoprim 100mg is a potent dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor. As a pharmacist and manufacturer, I classify this as a specialized antibacterial agent primarily used for the treatment and prophylaxis of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).

While it is frequently found in a Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) with Sulfamethoxazole (as Co-trimoxazole), the 100mg standalone tablet is the preferred choice in many markets to reduce the risk of sulfur-related side effects.

Primary Clinical Uses

At your WHO-GMP facility in Mumbai, you likely manufacture this for its core indications:

  • Acute Uncomplicated UTIs: First-line treatment for bladder infections caused by susceptible strains of E. coli and Klebsiella.

  • UTI Prophylaxis: Long-term, low-dose (often 100mg at night) prevention for patients with recurrent infections.

  • Respiratory Tract Infections: Occasionally used for acute bronchitis, though less common than its use in urology.

Mechanism of Action: The Folate Synthesis Blockade

Trimethoprim works by starving bacteria of the essential components they need to replicate their DNA.

Selective Enzyme Inhibition: It binds to and reversibly inhibits the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase.

Blocking Folate Production: This prevents the reduction of dihydrofolic acid to tetrahydrofolic acid (the active form of folate).

DNA Failure: Without active folate, bacteria cannot synthesize thymidine and other nucleic acids. This stops bacterial growth (Bacteriostatic effect).

Human Safety: Trimethoprim has a much higher affinity for the bacterial version of this enzyme than the human version, which is why it is safe for the patient.

The Pharmacist’s “Specialty Notes”

As you develop your digital platforms, providing these technical insights will establish your firm’s authority:

  • The “Nightly Dose” Strategy: For prophylaxis, taking the 100mg tablet at bedtime is standard. This allows the drug to concentrate in the bladder overnight when urine is held for longer periods.

  • Hyperkalemia Warning: Trimethoprim can occasionally increase potassium levels in the blood. This is a vital technical detail for B2B buyers supplying geriatric clinics or patients on BP meds like Losartan.

The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Technical & Export

From a production and B2B standpoint at your facility in Mumbai:

  • The “Sulfur-Free” USP: On your multivendor marketplace, position Trimethoprim 100mg as the “Safer Alternative to Co-trimoxazole” for patients with sulfur allergies. This is a high-demand niche in European and North American markets.

  • Stability & Packaging: Trimethoprim is relatively stable but light-sensitive. At our facility, we utilize Alu-Alu blister packaging to ensure a 36-month shelf life. This is a critical selling point for export to Zone IVb tropical regions.

  • Dossier Support: We provide full CTD/eCTD Dossiers to support your firm in bidding for government health tenders and international pharmacy chain contracts.