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BACTRIM
(sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim)
Injection, for Intravenous Infusion
BACTRIM™ (trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole) injection, a sterile solution for intravenous infusion only, is a combination of sulfamethoxazole, a sulfonamide antimicrobial, and trimethoprim, a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor antibacterial. Each 5 mL contains 80 mg trimethoprim (16 mg/mL) and 400 mg sulfamethoxazole (80 mg/mL) compounded with 40% propylene glycol, 10% ethyl alcohol and 0.3% diethanolamine; 1% benzyl alcohol and 0.1% sodium metabisulfite added as preservatives, water for injection, and pH adjusted to approximately 10 with sodium hydroxide.
Trimethoprim is 2,4-diamino-5-(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzyl)pyrimidine. It is a white to light yellow, odorless, bitter compound with a molecular weight of 290.3 and the following structural formula:
 |
C14H18N4O3 M.W. 290.3
Sulfamethoxazole is N1-(5-methyl-3-isoxazolyl) sulfanilamide. It is an almost white, odorless, tasteless compound with a molecular weight of 253.28 and the following structural formula:
 |
C10H11N3O3S M.W. 253.28
BACTRIM is indicated in the treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in adults and pediatric patients two months of age and older.
BACTRIM is indicated in the treatment of enteritis caused by susceptible strains of Shigella flexneri and Shigella sonnei in adults and pediatric patients two months of age and older.
BACTRIM is indicated in the treatment of severe or complicated urinary tract infections in adults and pediatric patients two months of age and older due to susceptible strains of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter species, Morganella morganii and Proteus species when oral administration of BACTRIM is not feasible and when the organism is not susceptible to single-agent antibacterials effective in the urinary tract.
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of BACTRIM and other antibacterial drugs, BACTRIM should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to empiric selection of therapy.
Although appropriate culture and susceptibility studies should be performed, therapy may be started while awaiting the results of these studies.
The maximum recommended daily dose is 60 mL (960 mg trimethoprim) per day.
Table 1: Dosage in Adults and Pediatric Patients (Two Months of Age and Older) by Indication
| Dosage Guidelines | |||
| Infection | Total Daily Dose (based on trimethoprim content) | Frequency | Duration |
| Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia* | 15-20 mg/kg (in 3 or 4 equally divided doses) | Every 6 to 8 hours | 14 days |
| Severe Urinary Tract Infections | 8-10 mg/kg (in 2 to 4 equally divided doses) | Every 6, 8 or 12 hours | 14 days |
| Shigellosis | 8-10 mg/kg (in 2 to 4 equally divided doses) | Every 6, 8 or 12 hours | 5 days |
| * A total daily dose of 10 to 15 mg/kg was sufficient in 10 adult patients with normal renal function in a published literature.1 | |||
When renal function is impaired, a reduced dosage should be employed, as shown in Table 2.
Table 2: Impaired Renal Function Dosage Guidelines
| Creatinine Clearance (mL/min) | Recommended Dosage Regimen |
| Above 30 | Usual standard dosage regimen |
| 15 – 30 | ½ the usual dosage regimen |
| Below 15 | Use not recommended |
Administer the solution by intravenous infusion over a period of 60 to 90 minutes. Avoid administration by rapid infusion or bolus injection. Do NOT administer BACTRIM intramuscularly.
Visually inspect parenteral drug products for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever the solution and container permit.
BACTRIM must be diluted. Each 5 mL should be added to 125 mL of 5% dextrose in water. After diluting with 5% dextrose in water, the solution should not be refrigerated and should be used within 6 hours.
If a dilution of 5 mL per 100 mL of 5% dextrose in water is desired, it should be used within 4 hours.
In those instances where fluid restriction is desirable, each 5 mL may be added to 75 mL of 5% dextrose in water. Under these circumstances the solution should be mixed just prior to use and should be administered within 2 hours.
If upon visual inspection there is cloudiness or evidence of crystallization after mixing, the solution should be discarded and a fresh solution prepared.
Do NOT mix Bactrim in 5% dextrose in water with drugs or solutions in the same container.
After initial entry into the vial, the remaining contents must be used within 48 hours.
The following infusion systems have been tested and found satisfactory: unit-dose glass containers; unit-dose polyvinyl chloride and polyolefin containers. No other systems have been tested and therefore no others can be recommended.
BACTRIM is available as an injection containing 80 mg/mL of sulfamethoxazole and 16 mg/mL of trimethoprim in 10 mL single-dose and 30 mL multiple-dose vials.
BACTRIM™ (sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim) injection is supplied as follows:
10-mL Vials, containing 160 mg trimethoprim (16 mg/mL) and 800 mg sulfamethoxazole (80 mg/mL) for infusion with 5% dextrose in water.
30-mL Multiple-dose Vials, each 5 mL containing 80 mg trimethoprim (16 mg/mL) and 400 mg sulfamethoxazole (80 mg/mL) for infusion with 5% dextrose in water.
Store at room temperature (15°C – 30°C or 59°F – 86°F). DO NOT REFRIGERATE.
REFERENCES
1. Winston DJ, Lau WK, Gale RP, Young LS. Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole for the Treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Ann Intern Med. June 1980;92:762-769.
Distributed by: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. Cranbury, NJ 08512. Revised: Mar 2017
The following serious adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The most common adverse reactions are gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, and anorexia) and allergic skin reactions (such as rash and urticaria).
Local reaction, pain and slight irritation on intravenous (IV) administration are infrequent. Thrombophlebitis has been observed.
Table 3: Adverse Reactions Reported with BACTRIM
| Body System | Adverse Reactions |
| Hematologic |
|
| Allergic Reactions |
|
| Gastrointestinal |
|
| Genitourinary |
|
| Metabolic and Nutritional |
|
| Neurologic |
|
| Psychiatric |
|
| Endocrine |
|
| Musculoskeletal |
|
| Respiratory |
|
| Miscellaneous |
|
| Eye Disorders |
|
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of BACTRIM. Because these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure:
Trimethoprim is an inhibitor of CYP2C8 as well as OCT2 transporter. Sulfamethoxazole is an inhibitor of CYP2C9. Avoid coadministration of BACTRIM with drugs that are substrates of CYP2C8 and 2C9 or OCT2.
Table 4: Drug Interactions with BACTRIM
| Drug(s) | Recommendation | Comments |
| Diuretics | Avoid concurrent use | In elderly patients concurrently receiving certain diuretics, primarily thiazides, an increased incidence of thrombocytopenia with purpura has been reported. |
| Warfarin | Monitor prothrombin time and INR | It has been reported that BACTRIM may prolong the prothrombin time in patients who are receiving the anticoagulant warfarin (a CYP2C9 substrate). This interaction should be kept in mind when BACTRIM is given to patients already on anticoagulant therapy, and the coagulation time should be reassessed. |
| Phenytoin | Monitor serum phenytoin levels | BACTRIM may inhibit the hepatic metabolism of phenytoin (a CYP2C9 substrate). BACTRIM, given at a common clinical dosage, increased the phenytoin half-life by 39% and decreased the phenytoin metabolic clearance rate by 27%. When administering these drugs concurrently, one should be alert for possible excessive phenytoin effect. |
| Methotrexate | Avoid concurrent use | Sulfonamides can also displace methotrexate from plasma protein binding sites and can compete with the renal transport of methotrexate, thus increasing free methotrexate concentrations. |
| Cyclosporine | Avoid concurrent use | There have been reports of marked but reversible nephrotoxicity with coadministration of BACTRIM and cyclosporine in renal transplant recipients. |
| Digoxin | Monitor serum digoxin levels | Increased digoxin blood levels can occur with concomitant BACTRIM therapy, especially in elderly patients |
| Indomethacin | Avoid concurrent use | Increased sulfamethoxazole blood levels may occur in patients who are also receiving indomethacin. |
| Pyrimethamine | Avoid concurrent use | Occasional reports suggest that patients receiving pyrimethamine as malaria prophylaxis in doses exceeding 25 mg weekly may develop megaloblastic anemia if BACTRIM is prescribed. |
| Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) | Monitor therapeutic response and adjust dose of TCA accordingly | The efficacy of tricyclic antidepressants can decrease when coadministered with BACTRIM. |
| Oral hypoglycemics | Monitor blood glucose more frequently | Like other sulfonamide-containing drugs, BACTRIM potentiates the effect of oral hypoglycemic that are metabolized by CYP2C8 (e.g., pioglitazone, repaglinide, and rosiglitazone) or CYP2C9 (e.g., glipizide and glyburide) or eliminated renally via OCT2 (e.g., metformin). Additional monitoring of blood glucose may be warranted. |
| Amantadine | Avoid concurrent use | In the literature, a single case of toxic delirium has been reported after concomitant intake of BACTRIM and amantadine (an OCT2 substrate). Cases of interactions with other OCT2 substrates, memantine and metformin, have also been reported. |
| Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors | Avoid concurrent use | In the literature, three cases of hyperkalemia in elderly patients have been reported after concomitant intake of BACTRIM and an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor.6,7 |
| Zidovudine | Monitor for hematologic toxicity | Zidovudine and BACTRIM are known to induce hematological abnormalities. Hence, there is potential for an additive myelotoxicity when coadministered.8 |
| Dofetilide | Concurrent administration is contraindicated | Elevated plasma concentrations of dofetilide have been reported following concurrent administration of trimethoprim and dofetilide. Increased plasma concentrations of dofetilide may cause serious ventricular arrhythmias associated with QT interval prolongation, including torsade de pointes.2,3 |
| Procainamide | Closely monitor for clinical and ECG signs of procainamide toxicity and/or procainamide plasma concentration if available | Trimethoprim increases the plasma concentrations of procainamide and its active N-acetyl metabolite (NAPA) when trimethoprim and procainamide are coadministered. The increased procainamide and NAPA plasma concentrations that resulted from the pharmacokinetic interaction with trimethoprim are associated with further prolongation of the QTc interval.9 |
BACTRIM, specifically the trimethoprim component, can interfere with a serum methotrexate assay as determined by the competitive binding protein technique (CBPA) when a bacterial dihydrofolate reductase is used as the binding protein. No interference occurs, however, if methotrexate is measured by a radioimmunoassay (RIA).
The presence of BACTRIM may also interfere with the Jaffé alkaline picrate reaction assay for creatinine, resulting in overestimations of about 10% in the range of normal values.
REFERENCES
2. Al-Khatib SM, LaPointe N, Kramer JM, Califf RM. What Clinicians Should Know About the QT Interval. JAMA. 2003;289(16):2120-2127.
3. Boyer EW, Stork C, Wang RY. Review: The Pharmacology and Toxicology of Dofetilide. Int J Med Toxicol. 2001;4(2):16.
5. London NJ, Garg SJ, Moorthy RS, Cunningham ET. Drug-induced uveitis. J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect. 2013;3:43.
6. Marinella MA. Trimethoprim-induced hyperkalemia: An analysis of reported cases. Gerontol. 1999;45:209–212.
7. Margassery S, Bastani B. Life threatening hyperkalemia and acidosis secondary to trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole treatment. J. Nephrol. 2001;14(5):410-414.
8. Moh R, et al. Haematological changes in adults receiving a zidovudine-containing HAART regimen in combination with cotrimoxazole in Côte d’Ivoire. Antivir Ther. 2005;10(5):615-24.
9. Kosoglou T, Rocci ML Jr, Vlasses PH. Trimethoprim alters the disposition of procainamide and Nacetylprocainamide. Clin Pharmacol Ther. Oct 1988;44(4):467-77.
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
Some epidemiologic studies suggest that exposure to BACTRIM during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations, particularly neural tube defects, cardiovascular malformations, urinary tract defects, oral clefts, and club foot. If BACTRIM is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be advised of the potential hazards to the fetus [see Use In Specific Populations].
Fatalities associated with the administration of sulfonamides, have occurred due to severe reactions, including, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, fulminant hepatic necrosis, agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia and other blood dyscrasias.
Sulfonamides, including sulfonamide-containing products such as BACTRIM, should be discontinued at the first appearance of skin rash or any sign of adverse reaction. Clinical signs, such as rash, sore throat, fever, arthralgia, cough, shortness of breath, pallor, purpura or jaundice may be early indications of serious reactions. A skin rash may be followed by more severe reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, hepatic necrosis or serious blood disorder. Complete blood counts should be done frequently in patients receiving sulfonamides. Cough, shortness of breath, and pulmonary infiltrates are hypersensitivity reactions of the respiratory tract that have been reported in association with sulfonamide treatment.
BACTRIM-induced thrombocytopenia may be an immune-mediated disorder. Severe cases of thrombocytopenia that are fatal or life threatening have been reported. Monitor patients for hematologic toxicity. Thrombocytopenia usually resolves within a week upon discontinuation of BACTRIM.
Avoid use of BACTRIM in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis. Clinical studies have documented that patients with group A β-hemolytic streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis have a greater incidence of bacteriologic failure when treated with BACTRIM than do those patients treated with penicillin, as evidenced by failure to eradicate this organism from the tonsillopharyngeal area. Therefore, BACTRIM will not prevent sequelae such as rheumatic fever.
Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including BACTRIM, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.
C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.
If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.
BACTRIM contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may cause allergic-type reactions, including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people. The overall prevalence of sulfite sensitivity in the general population is unknown. Sulfite sensitivity is seen more frequently in asthmatic than in non-asthmatic people.
BACTRIM contains benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Serious and fatal adverse reactions including “gasping syndrome” can occur in neonates and low birth weight infants treated with benzyl alcohol-preserved formulations in infusion solutions, including BACTRIM. The “gasping syndrome” is characterized by central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, and gasping respirations. BACTRIM is contraindicated in pediatric patients less than two months of age [see CONTRAINDICATIONS].
When prescribing BACTRIM in pediatric patients (two months of age and older), consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources including BACTRIM (contains 10 mg of benzyl alcohol per mL) and other drugs containing benzyl alcohol.
The minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which serious adverse reactions may occur is not known [see Use In Specific Populations].
Treatment failure and excess mortality were observed when BACTRIM was used concomitantly with leucovorin for the treatment of HIV positive patients with Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a randomized placebo controlled trial.4 Avoid coadministration of BACTRIM and leucovorin during treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia.
Avoid use of BACTRIM in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function, in those with possible folate deficiency (e.g., the elderly, chronic alcoholics, patients receiving anticonvulsant therapy, patients with malabsorption syndrome, and patients in malnutrition states) and in those with severe allergies or bronchial asthma.
Hematologic changes indicative of folic acid deficiency may occur in elderly patients or in patients with preexisting folic acid deficiency or kidney failure. These effects are reversible by folinic acid therapy [see Use In Specific Populations].
In glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficient individuals, hemolysis may occur. This reaction is frequently dose-related.
Local irritation and inflammation due to extravascular infiltration of the infusion have been observed with BACTRIM. If these occur the infusion should be discontinued and restarted at another site.
Cases of hypoglycemia in non-diabetic patients treated with BACTRIM have been seen, usually occurring after a few days of therapy. Patients with renal dysfunction, liver disease, malnutrition or those receiving high doses of BACTRIM are particularly at risk.
Trimethoprim, component of BACTRIM, has been noted to impair phenylalanine metabolism, but this is of no significance in phenylketonuric patients on appropriate dietary restriction.
Like other drugs containing sulfonamides, BACTRIM can precipitate porphyria crisis and hypothyroidism. Avoid use of BACTRIM in patients with porphyria or thyroid dysfunction.
AIDS patients may not tolerate or respond to BACTRIM in the same manner as non-AIDS patients. The incidence of adverse reactions, particularly rash, fever, leukopenia, and elevated aminotransferase (transaminase) values, with BACTRIM therapy in AIDS patients who are being treated for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia has been reported to be greatly increased compared with the incidence normally associated with the use of BACTRIM in non-AIDS patients. If a patient develops skin rash or any sign of an adverse reaction, reevaluate therapy with BACTRIM [see Hypersensitivity And Other Fatal Reactions].
Avoid coadministration of BACTRIM and leucovorin during treatment of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia [see Risk Associated With Concurrent Use Of Leucovorin For Pneumocystis Jirovecii Pneumonia].
High dosage of trimethoprim, as used in patients with P. jirovecii pneumonia, induces a progressive but reversible increase of serum potassium concentrations in a substantial number of patients. Even treatment with recommended doses may cause hyperkalemia when trimethoprim is administered to patients with underlying disorders of potassium metabolism, with renal insufficiency, or if drugs known to induce hyperkalemia are given concomitantly. Close monitoring of serum potassium is warranted in these patients.
Severe and symptomatic hyponatremia can occur in patients receiving BACTRIM, particularly for the treatment of P. jirovecii pneumonia. Evaluation for hyponatremia and appropriate correction is necessary in symptomatic patients to prevent life-threatening complications.
During treatment, ensure adequate fluid intake and urinary output to prevent crystalluria. Patients who are “slow acetylators” may be more prone to idiosyncratic reactions to sulfonamides.
Complete blood counts should be done frequently in patients receiving BACTRIM. Discontinue BACTRIM if a significant reduction in the count of any formed blood element is noted. Perform urinalyses with careful microscopic examination and renal function tests during therapy, particularly for those patients with impaired renal function.
Prescribing BACTRIM in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
Sulfamethoxazole was not carcinogenic when assessed in a 26-week tumorigenic mouse (Tg-rasH2) study at doses up to 400 mg/kg/day sulfamethoxazole; equivalent to 2-fold the human systemic exposure (at a daily dose of 800 mg sulfamethoxazole b.i.d. (twice a day).
In vitro reverse mutation bacterial tests according to the standard protocol have not been performed with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in combination. An in vitro chromosomal aberration test in human lymphocytes with sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim was negative. In in vitro and in vivo tests in animal species, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim did not damage chromosomes. In vivo micronucleus assays were positive following oral administration of sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim. Observations of leukocytes obtained from patients treated with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim revealed no chromosomal abnormalities.
Sulfamethoxazole alone was positive in an in vitro reverse mutation bacterial assay and in in vitro micronucleus assays using cultured human lymphocytes.
Trimethoprim alone was negative in in vitro reverse mutation bacterial assays and in in vitro chromosomal aberration assays with Chinese Hamster ovary or lung cells with or without S9 activation. In in vitro Comet, micronucleus and chromosomal damage assays using cultured human lymphocytes, trimethoprim was positive. In mice following oral administration of trimethoprim, no DNA damage in Comet assays of liver, kidney, lung, spleen, or bone marrow was recorded.
No adverse effects on fertility or general reproductive performance were observed in rats given oral dosages as high as 350 mg/kg/day sulfamethoxazole plus 70 mg/kg/day trimethoprim, doses roughly two times the recommended human daily dose on a body surface area basis.
BACTRIM may cause fetal harm if administered to a pregnant woman. Some epidemiologic studies suggest that exposure to BACTRIM during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations, particularly neural tube defects, cardiovascular abnormalities, urinary tract defects, oral clefts, and club foot [see Human Data].
One of 3 rat studies showed cleft palate at doses approximately 5 times the recommended human dose on a body surface area basis; the other 2 studies did not show teratogenicity at similar doses. Studies in pregnant rabbits showed increased fetal loss at approximately 6 times the human dose on a body surface area basis [see Animal Data].
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Advise pregnant women of the potential harm of BACTRIM to the fetus [see Clinical Considerations].
Disease-associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk
Urinary tract infection in pregnancy is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and pre-eclampsia, and increased mortality to the pregnant woman. P. jirovecii pneumonia in pregnancy is associated with preterm birth and increased morbidity and mortality for the pregnant woman. BACTRIM should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Human Data
While there are no large, prospective, well-controlled studies in pregnant women and their babies, some retrospective epidemiologic studies suggest an association between first trimester exposure to BACTRIM with an increased risk of congenital malformations, particularly neural tube defects, cardiovascular abnormalities, urinary tract defects, oral clefts, and club foot. These studies, however, were limited by the small number of exposed cases and the lack of adjustment for multiple statistical comparisons and confounders. These studies are further limited by recall, selection, and information biases, and by limited generalizability of their findings. Lastly, outcome measures varied between studies, limiting cross-study comparisons.
Alternatively, other epidemiologic studies did not detect statistically significant associations between BACTRIM exposure and specific malformations. Brumfitt and Pursell,10 in a retrospective study, reported the outcome of 186 pregnancies during which the mother received either placebo or oral trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. The incidence of congenital abnormalities was 4.5% (3 of 66) in those who received placebo and 3.3% (4 of 120) in those receiving trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole. There were no abnormalities in the 10 children whose mothers received the drug during the first trimester.
In a separate survey, Brumfitt and Pursell also found no congenital abnormalities in 35 children whose mothers had received oral trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole at the time of conception or shortly thereafter.
Animal Data
In rats, oral doses of either 533 mg/kg sulfamethoxazole or 200 mg/kg trimethoprim produced teratologic effects manifested mainly as cleft palates. These doses are approximately 5 and 6 times the recommended human total daily dose on a body surface area basis. In two studies in rats, no teratology was observed when 512 mg/kg of sulfamethoxazole was used in combination with 128 mg/kg of trimethoprim. In some rabbit studies, an overall increase in fetal loss (dead and resorbed conceptuses) was associated with doses of trimethoprim 6 times the human therapeutic dose based on body surface area.
Levels of BACTRIM in breast milk are approximately 2 to 5% of the recommended daily dose for pediatric patients over two months of age. There is no information regarding the effect of BACTRIM on the breastfed infant or the effect on milk production. Because of the potential risk of bilirubin displacement and kernicterus on the breastfed child [see CONTRAINDICATIONS], advise women to avoid breastfeeding during treatment with BACTRIM.
BACTRIM is contraindicated in pediatric patients younger than two months of age because of the potential risk of bilirubin displacement and kernicterus [see CONTRAINDICATIONS].
Serious adverse reactions including fatal reactions and the “gasping syndrome” occurred in premature neonates and low birth weight infants in the neonatal intensive care unit who received benzyl alcohol as a preservative in infusion solutions. In these cases, benzyl alcohol dosages of 99 to 234 mg/kg/day produced high levels of benzyl alcohol and its metabolites in the blood and urine (blood levels of benzyl alcohol were 0.61 to 1.378 mmol/L). Additional adverse reactions included gradual neurological deterioration, seizures, intracranial hemorrhage, hematologic abnormalities, skin breakdown, hepatic and renal failure, hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. Preterm, low-birth weight infants may be more likely to develop these reactions because they may be less able to metabolize benzyl alcohol.
When prescribing BACTRIM in pediatric patients consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources including BACTRIM (BACTRIM contains 10 mg of benzyl alcohol per mL) and other drugs containing benzyl alcohol. The minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which serious adverse reactions may occur is not known [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Clinical studies of BACTRIM did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
There may be an increased risk of severe adverse reactions in elderly patients, particularly when complicating conditions exist, e.g., impaired kidney and/or liver function, or concomitant use of other drugs.
Severe skin reactions, generalized bone marrow suppression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS], a specific decrease in platelets (with or without purpura), and hyperkalemia are the most frequently reported severe adverse reactions in elderly patients.
In those concurrently receiving certain diuretics, primarily thiazides, an increased incidence of thrombocytopenia with purpura has been reported. Increased digoxin blood levels can occur with concomitant BACTRIM therapy, especially in elderly patients. Serum digoxin levels should be monitored [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Hematologic changes indicative of folic acid deficiency may occur in elderly patients. These effects are reversible by folinic acid therapy. Appropriate dosage adjustments should be made for patients with impaired kidney function and duration of use should be as short as possible to minimize risks of undesired reactions [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
The trimethoprim component of BACTRIM may cause hyperkalemia when administered to patients with underlying disorders of potassium metabolism, with renal insufficiency or when given concomitantly with drugs known to induce hyperkalemia, such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors. Close monitoring of serum potassium is warranted in these patients. Discontinuation of BACTRIM treatment is recommended to help lower potassium serum levels.
Pharmacokinetics parameters for sulfamethoxazole were similar for geriatric subjects and younger adult subjects. The mean maximum serum trimethoprim concentration was higher and mean renal clearance of trimethoprim was lower in geriatric subjects compared with younger subjects [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
REFERENCES
4. Safrin S, Lee BL, Sande MA. Adjunctive folinic acid with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in AIDS patients is associated with an increased risk of therapeutic failure and death. J Infect Dis. Oct 1994;170(4):912-7.
10. Brumfitt W, Pursell R. Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole in the Treatment of Bacteriuria in Women. J Infect Dis. Nov 1973;128 (Suppl): S657-S663.
Since there has been no extensive experience in humans with single doses of BACTRIM in excess of 25 mL (400 mg trimethoprim and 2000 mg sulfamethoxazole), the maximum tolerated dose in humans is unknown.
Signs and symptoms of overdosage reported with sulfonamides include anorexia, colic, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, drowsiness and unconsciousness. Pyrexia, hematuria and crystalluria may be noted. Blood dyscrasias and jaundice are potential late manifestations of overdosage.
Signs of acute overdosage with trimethoprim include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, mental depression, confusion and bone marrow depression.
General principles of treatment include the administration of intravenous fluids if urine output is low and renal function is normal. Acidification of the urine will increase renal elimination of trimethoprim. The patient should be monitored with blood counts and appropriate blood chemistries, including electrolytes. If a significant blood dyscrasia or jaundice occurs, specific therapy should be instituted for these complications. Peritoneal dialysis is not effective and hemodialysis is only moderately effective in eliminating trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole.
Use of BACTRIM at high doses and/or for extended periods of time may cause bone marrow depression manifested as thrombocytopenia, leukopenia and/or megaloblastic anemia. If signs of bone marrow depression occur, the patient should be given leucovorin 5 to 15 mg daily until normal hematopoiesis is restored.
BACTRIM is contraindicated in the following:
BACTRIM contains sulfamethoxazole, a sulfonamide antimicrobial, and trimethoprim, a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor antibacterial [see Microbiology].
Following a 1-hour intravenous infusion of a single dose of 160 mg trimethoprim and 800 mg sulfamethoxazole to 11 patients whose weight ranged from 105 lbs to 165 lbs (mean, 143 lbs), the peak plasma concentrations of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole were 3.4 ± 0.3 μg/mL and 46.3 ± 2.7 μg/mL, respectively. Following repeated intravenous administration of the same dose at 8-hour intervals, the mean plasma concentrations just prior to and immediately after each infusion at steady state were 5.6 ± 0.6 μg/mL and 8.8 ± 0.9 μg/mL for trimethoprim and 70.6 ± 7.3 μg/mL and 105.6 ± 10.9 μg/mL for sulfamethoxazole. The mean plasma half-life was 11.3 ± 0.7 hours for trimethoprim and 12.8 ± 1.8 hours for sulfamethoxazole. All of these 11 patients had normal renal function, and their ages ranged from 17 to 78 years (median, 60 years).11
Pharmacokinetic studies in children and adults suggest an age-dependent half-life of trimethoprim, as indicated in Table 5. 12
Table 5: Half-life of Trimethoprim (TMP) in Pediatric Patients and Adults
| Age (years) |
No. of Patients |
Mean TMP Half-life (hours) |
| <1 | 2 | 7.67 |
| 1-10 | 9 | 5.49 |
| 10-20 | 5 | 8.19 |
| 20-63 | 6 | 12.82 |
Patients with severely impaired renal function exhibit an increase in the half-lives of both components, requiring dosage regimen adjustment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Both trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole exist in the blood as unbound, protein-bound and metabolized forms; sulfamethoxazole also exists as the conjugated form.
Approximately 44% of trimethoprim and 70% of sulfamethoxazole are bound to plasma proteins. The presence of 10 mg percent sulfamethoxazole in plasma decreases the protein binding of trimethoprim by an insignificant degree; trimethoprim does not influence the protein binding of sulfamethoxazole.
Both trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole distribute to sputum and vaginal fluid; trimethoprim also distributes to bronchial secretions, and both pass the placental barrier and are excreted in breast milk.
Metabolism
Sulfamethoxazole is metabolized in humans to at least 5 metabolites: the N4-acetyl-, N4-hydroxy-, 5methylhydroxy-, N4-acetyl-5-methylhydroxy- sulfamethoxazole metabolites, and an N-glucuronide conjugate. The formation of N4-hydroxy metabolite is mediated via CYP2C9.
Trimethoprim is metabolized in vitro to 11 different metabolites, of which, five are glutathione adducts and six are oxidative metabolites, including the major metabolites, 1- and 3-oxides and the 3- and 4hydroxy derivatives.
The free forms of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole are considered to be the therapeutically active forms. In vitro studies suggest that trimethoprim is a substrate of P-glycoprotein, OCT1 and OCT2, and that sulfamethoxazole is not a substrate of P-glycoprotein.
Excretion
Excretion of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole is primarily by the kidneys through both glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Urine concentrations of both trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole are considerably higher than are the concentrations in the blood. The percent of dose excreted in urine over a 12-hour period following the intravenous administration of the first dose of 240 mg of trimethoprim and 1200 mg of sulfamethoxazole on day 1 ranged from 17% to 42.4% as free trimethoprim; 7% to 12.7% as free sulfamethoxazole; and 36.7% to 56% as total (free plus the N4-acetylated metabolite) sulfamethoxazole. When administered together as BACTRIM, neither trimethoprim nor sulfamethoxazole affects the urinary excretion pattern of the other.
The pharmacokinetics of sulfamethoxazole 800 mg and trimethoprim 160 mg were studied in six geriatric subjects (mean age: 78.6 years) and six young healthy subjects (mean age: 29.3 years) using a non-US approved formulation. Pharmacokinetic values for sulfamethoxazole in geriatric subjects were similar to those observed in young adult subjects. The mean renal clearance of trimethoprim was significantly lower in geriatric subjects compared with young adult subjects (19 mL/h/kg vs. 55 mL/h/kg). However, after normalizing by body weight, the apparent total body clearance of trimethoprim was on average 19% lower in geriatric subjects compared with young adult subjects.
Sulfamethoxazole inhibits bacterial synthesis of dihydrofolic acid by competing with paraaminobenzoic acid (PABA). Trimethoprim blocks the production of tetrahydrofolic acid from dihydrofolic acid by binding to and reversibly inhibiting the required enzyme, dihydrofolate reductase. Thus, BACTRIM blocks two consecutive steps in the biosynthesis of nucleic acids and proteins essential to many bacteria.
In vitro studies have shown that bacterial resistance develops more slowly with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole than with either trimethoprim or sulfamethoxazole alone.
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in in vitro and in clinical infections [see INDICATIONS AND USAGE].
Escherichia coli
Klebsiella species
Enterobacter species
Morganella morganii
Proteus mirabilis
Proteus species
Proteus vulgaris
Shigella flexneri
Shigella sonnei
Pneumocystis jirovecii
The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following bacteria exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole against isolates of similar genus or organism group. However, the efficacy of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole in treating clinical infections caused by these bacteria has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials.
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Haemophilus influenzae
When available, the clinical microbiology laboratory should provide cumulative reports of in vitro susceptibility test results for antimicrobial drugs used in local hospitals and practice areas as periodic reports that describe the susceptibility profile of nosocomial and community-acquired pathogens. These reports should aid the physician in the selection of an appropriate antimicrobial drug for treatment.
Quantitative methods are used to determine antimicrobial MICs. These MICs provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The MICs should be determined using a standardized test method (broth and/or agar).13,14 The MIC values should be interpreted according to the criteria provided in Table 6.
Quantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters can also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The zone size should be determined using a standardized test method.14,15
This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 1.25 mcg/23.75 mcg of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole to test the susceptibility of microorganisms to BACTRIM. The disc diffusion interpretive criteria are provided in Table 6.
Table 6: Susceptibility Test Interpretive Criteria for Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole
| Bacteria | Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (ìg/mL) | Zone Diameter (mm) | ||||
| S | I | R | S | I | R | |
| Enterobacteriaceae | ≤ 2/38 | - | ≥ 4/76 | ≥ 16 | 11 – 15 | ≤ 10 |
A report of Susceptible (S) indicates that the antimicrobial drug is likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antimicrobial drug reaches the concentration usually achievable at the site of infection. A report of Intermediate (I) indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and, if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative, clinically feasible drugs, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where high dosage of drug can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone that prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of Resistant (R) indicates that the antimicrobial drug is not likely to inhibit growth of the pathogen if the antimicrobial drug reaches the concentration usually achievable at the infection site; other therapy should be selected.
Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of laboratory controls to monitor and ensure the accuracy and precision of supplies and reagents used in the assay, and the techniques of the individuals performing the test.13-15 Standard trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole powder should provide the following range of MIC values noted in Table 7. For the diffusion technique using the 1.25 mcg/23.75 mcg trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole disk the criteria in Table 7 should be achieved.
Table 7: Acceptable Quality Control Ranges for Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole
| QC Strain | Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (μg/mL) | Zone Diameter (mm) |
| Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 | ≤0.5/9.5 | 23–29 |
| Haemophilus influenzae ATCC 49247 | 0.03/0.59 – 0.25/4.75 | 24–32 |
| Streptococcus pneumoniae ATCC 49619 | 0.12/2.4 – 1/19 | 20–28 |
REFERENCES
11. Grose WE, Bodey GP, Loo TL. Clinical Pharmacology of Intravenously Administered Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. Mar 1979;15:447-451.
12. Siber GR, Gorham C, Durbin W, Lesko L, Levin MJ. Pharmacology of Intravenous Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole in Children and Adults. Current Chemotherapy and Infectious Diseases. American Society for Microbiology, Washington, D.C. 1980; Vol. 1, pp. 691-692.
13. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Methods for Dilution Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests for Bacteria that Grow Aerobically; Approved Standard – Tenth Edition. CLSI document M07–A10 [2015], Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA.
14. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing; Twenty-seventh Informational Supplement. CLSI document M100-S27 [2017], Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA.
15. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Disk Diffusion Susceptibility Tests; Approved Standard – Twelfth Edition. CLSI document M02-A12 [2015], Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087, USA.
Advise female patients of reproductive potential that BACTRIM can cause fetal harm and to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].
Advise nursing women to avoid breastfeeding during treatment with BACTRIM.
Counsel patients that antibacterial drugs including BACTRIM should only be used to treat bacterial infections. It does not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold).
Instruct patients to maintain an adequate fluid intake in order to prevent crystalluria and stone formation.
Advise patients that diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.
