trimethoprim

Disclaimer to the Online Edition

This Manual has been designed for use in the NICU at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), London, Ontario, Canada, and represents clinical practice at this institution. The information contained within the Manual may not be applicable to other centres. If users of this Manual are not familiar with a drug, it is recommended that the official monograph be consulted before it is prescribed and administered. Any user of this information is advised that the contributors, Editor and LHSC are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and / or any consequences arising from the use of the information in this Manual.

trimethoprim

Indication

  • Antibiotic used in the prophylaxis of urinary tract infection in neonates

Dosage Guidelines

  • 1 mg/kg/dose q12 hours

Administration

  • ORAL: administer with feeds to avoid GI irritation

Adverse Effects

  • Rare at recommended doses
  • Feeding intolerance, megaloblastic anemia, neutropenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, rash, increased liver enzymes, cholestatic jaundice, elevated serum creatinine and urea
  • Hyperkalemia, hyponatremia

Comments

  • May cause folate deficiencies with bone marrow suppression.  Discontinue therapy if this occurs.  May require folinic acid to restore hematopoiesis.
  • Check baseline CBC, liver enzymes and serum creatinine.  Monitor CBC after 1 week of therapy.  Monitor these parameters monthly thereafter.
  • Approximately 90% absorbed.  Mostly cleared unchanged in the urine.  Dosage adjustment necessary in renal impairment.

Supplied As

  • 10 mg/mL oral suspension

References
  1. LexiComp Sick Kids