Trimethoprim (Monotrim)

Trimethoprim (Monotrim) is an approved antibiotic, which is used most frequently in conjunction with sulfamethoxazole in the form of the drug cotrimoxazole (Septrin). Cotrimoxazole is a first-line therapy for the prevention and treatment of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). Trimethoprim in combination with dapsone is also used for PCP, but with a relatively high rate of allergic skin reactions.

Trimethoprim alone has not been tested against PCP in humans, but studies in rats showed that it was unable to prevent PCP infection whereas the cotrimoxazole combination was successful.

Trimethoprim is available as a generic (non-brand name) product.

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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.