Dosing and Administration of Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole

Introduction to Dosing

• The Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends a dose of trimethoprim 4-6 mg/kg/dose, sulfamethoxazole 20-30 mg/kg/dose PO every 12 hours for the treatment of various infections 1

Monitoring and Adverse Effects

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends regular monitoring for adverse effects, especially hematologic toxicity, with complete blood counts with differential and platelet count performed at initiation of TMP-SMX prophylaxis and at monthly intervals 2

Duration of Therapy

• The American Academy of Pediatrics and other medical societies recommend a duration of therapy of 5-10 days for MRSA skin infections, although this specific fact is from a less preferred source, it is included for completeness 3