Trimethoprim

Trimethoprim is an antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) such as cystitis. It also helps to reduce uncomfortable symptoms quickly. It is sold under several brand names, including Monotrim, Minotrim and Trimogal.

Whilst Trimethoprim is occasionally prescribed to treat other kinds of bacterial infections such as acne or chest infections, it is sold at euroClinix only for the treatment of UTIs.

You can buy the 200mg dose online at euroClinix. All you have to do is fill out a short and discreet consultation form and one of our registered doctors.

Please note: Trimethoprim is not the first-line treatment for cystitis. It can only be prescribed if a urine test has shown you have a UTI that is sensitive to Trimethoprim. Consult your GP if you are unsure.

Trimethoprim kills the bacteria that cause infections by preventing them from making certain enzymes. This stops the bacteria from spreading and kills the infection.

Trimethoprim was designed to tackle specific types of bacteria such as E.coli. These bacteria tend to be more difficult to kill and are more likely to become resistant to treatment. For that reason, you must take Trimethoprim exactly as prescribed.

How long does it take for Trimethoprim to work?

For most women, Trimethoprim should clear the infection in 3 days. However, some women may need longer. If your infection has not cleared after the treatment course, speak to your doctor.

For men, the infection should clear in 7 days.

Trimethoprim is a commonly used antibiotic and is safe for most people. However, you should not take it if you:

• are allergic to the ingredients
• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• have severe liver problems
• have a blood disorder

Ask a doctor before taking if you have:

• kidney problems, kidney disease or are having dialysis treatment
• a folate deficiency (lack of folic acid)
• a disorder called porphyria
• intolerance to some sugars
• high potassium levels in your blood

While men can take Trimethoprim, we cannot prescribe it to men online. This is because a UTI in men is often more serious.

Please read the patient information leaflet for more information on who can and cannot take it.

The dose you need to take will depend on several factors.

To treat an acute UTI, women should take 200mg twice daily for 3 days. Men should take it twice daily for 7 days. Children will require a lower dose of 100mg.

If you struggle with frequent UTIs, you can take Trimethoprim to prevent symptoms:

• take 100mg once daily before bed
• take one 200mg tablet after exposure to a trigger

You must take the dosage as instructed for Trimethoprim to work.

Trimethoprim tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. You can take them with or without food.

You must take antibiotics exactly as instructed. Even if your symptoms improve quickly, you should always finish the entire course of antibiotics. It could cause your infection to return or become harder to treat.

If you miss a dose, take your missed dose when you remember and then your next dose at your usual time. If you miss a dose, and it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue from your next scheduled dose.

Always read the patient information leaflet before starting any new medication. You can find the patient information leaflet at the bottom of this page.

Can I drink alcohol whilst on Trimethoprim?

You can drink alcohol while on Trimethoprim. However, the effects of alcohol can cause some side effects whilst using this medication. So, it’s advised you drink in moderation.

Trimethoprim can react with other medications, so you should check with your doctor before ordering any medication online.

Some interactions include with:

• certain heart medications
• medications for high blood pressure
• diuretics
• rifampicin - an antibiotic often used to treat tuberculosis
• anticoagulants (e.g warfarin) - prevent blood clots
• certain epilepsy treatments such as phenytoin
• certain antiparasitics to treat malaria
• dapsone - is used to treat skin conditions and leprosy
• immunosuppressant drugs (e.g methotrexate or cyclosporine) - for cancer treatment or to prevent organ rejection after a transplant
• bone marrow depressants

If you are unsure whether you take any of these medications, please consult your GP or a healthcare professional.

As with all medications, there is a chance you may experience some side effects.

Some of the most common side effects of Trimethoprim include:

These side effects are usually mild and go away once you have finished treatment. However, if your symptoms don’t go away or you experience more severe side effects, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Refer to the patient leaflet for a complete list of side effects.

You can buy Trimethoprim tablets online from euroClinix. Our service is certified safe by the MHRA, GMC and GPhC.

All you have to do is complete an online consultation form. Then, one of our UK doctors will review your consultation to ensure that this treatment is suitable for you. If approved, your prescription will be dispatched and dispensed by our pharmacy. Your order will then be sent with free next-day delivery, so you can start to get better sooner.