Septran Ds

Description

Septran DS is a combination antibiotic containing Sulfamethoxazole (800mg) and Trimethoprim (160mg). Together, these agents work synergistically by blocking two consecutive steps in bacterial folate synthesis, which is essential for DNA production and bacterial survival. This dual action enhances antibacterial effectiveness and makes Septran DS useful in treating a variety of infections, including respiratory, urinary tract, gastrointestinal, and certain systemic bacterial infections.

Brand

• Septran DS

Generic Name

• Sulfamethoxazole 800mg

• Trimethoprim 160mg

Strength & Form

• 160/800mg Tablets

• 1 Strip = 10 Tablets

Prescription

• Prescription Required

Used For

• Bacterial Infections

Indications

Septran DS is indicated for the treatment and prevention of infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including:

• Respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia).

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs).

• Gastrointestinal infections (e.g., traveler’s diarrhea, shigellosis).

• Skin and soft tissue infections.

• Ear infections (otitis media).

• Opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients (e.g., Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia).

How It Works

• Sulfamethoxazole inhibits bacterial utilization of para-aminobenzoic acid, blocking dihydrofolate synthesis.

• Trimethoprim inhibits bacterial dihydrofolate reductase, preventing the conversion of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate.

• Together, they block two essential steps in folate metabolism, producing a strong antibacterial effect.

Dosage

• Standard adult dose is 1 tablet every 12 hours, or as prescribed by a physician.

• Dosage varies based on infection type, age, kidney function, and clinical response.

• Always complete the prescribed course to prevent bacterial resistance.

Side Effects

Common:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

• Abdominal pain, loss of appetite.

• Headache, dizziness, insomnia.

Less Common/Serious:

• Rash, photosensitivity, allergic reactions.

• Bone marrow suppression (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia).

• Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia).

• Liver dysfunction, pancreatitis.

• Muscle or joint pain.

Rare but Serious:

• Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis).

• Blood disorders (agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia).

• Severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.

• Kidney stones or crystalluria.

Drug Interactions

Septran DS may interact with:

• Thiazide diuretics (risk of blood disorders).

• Warfarin (increased bleeding risk).

• Methotrexate (increased toxicity).

• Phenytoin (enhanced effects, toxicity).

• Zidovudine, Lamivudine (higher bone marrow suppression risk).

• Cyclosporin (increased kidney toxicity).

• Digoxin (higher serum levels).

• Rifampicin (reduced efficacy).

• Repaglinide (risk of hypoglycemia).

• Azathioprine (higher bone marrow suppression).

Contraindications

Do not use Septran DS if you have:

• Known allergy to sulfonamides or trimethoprim.

• Megaloblastic anemia due to folate deficiency.

• Severe liver or kidney impairment.

• Pregnancy at term or breastfeeding (risk of kernicterus in newborns).

• Age under 2 months.

• History of severe hypersensitivity to sulfa drugs.

Warnings & Precautions

• Use cautiously in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.

• Patients with folate deficiency (elderly, alcoholics, malnourished) are at higher risk of side effects.

• Adequate hydration is essential to prevent crystalluria and kidney stones.

• Antibiotic-associated diarrhea or colitis may occur during or after treatment; seek immediate care if severe.

• Long-term or repeated use may increase risk of secondary infections.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Not recommended at term due to risk of kernicterus in newborns.

• Lactation: Passes into breast milk; avoid use in nursing mothers.

Storage

• Store at room temperature (18–25°C)

• Protect from light, heat, and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

Doctor’s Review

Dr. Farhan Malik – Consultant Infectious Diseases Specialist
“Septran DS is a widely used combination antibiotic with proven effectiveness against urinary, respiratory, and gastrointestinal bacterial infections. Its dual mechanism makes it stronger than single-agent antibiotics, but monitoring is essential due to possible side effects, particularly in patients with kidney disease or folate deficiency.”

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any prescription medication.