Trimethoprim is an antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial infections. Here are some key points about trimethoprim:
_Properties_
1. _Chemical Formula_: C14H18N4O3
2. _Molecular Weight_: 290.32 g/mol
3. _Appearance_: White or off-white crystalline powder
4. _Solubility_: Sparingly soluble in water, soluble in organic solvents
5. _pH_: 6.5-7.5 (1% aqueous solution)
_Uses_
1. _Urinary Tract Infections_: Trimethoprim is used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by susceptible bacteria, such as E. coli, Klebsiella, and Proteus.
2. _Respiratory Tract Infections_: It is used to treat respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, caused by susceptible bacteria.
3. _Skin and Soft Tissue Infections_: Trimethoprim is used to treat skin and soft tissue infections, such as impetigo and folliculitis, caused by susceptible bacteria.
4. _Gastrointestinal Infections_: It is used to treat gastrointestinal infections, such as traveler's diarrhea, caused by susceptible bacteria.
_Mechanism of Action_
1. _Inhibition of Dihydrofolate Reductase_: Trimethoprim works by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, which is necessary for the synthesis of tetrahydrofolate, a precursor to DNA synthesis.
2. _Bacteriostatic Effect_: Trimethoprim has a bacteriostatic effect, meaning it inhibits the growth and multiplication of bacteria, rather than killing them outright.
