SEPTRAN DS TABLET 10'S

How SEPTRAN DS TABLET 10'S Works

• SEPTRAN DS TABLET 10'S is a combination medicine containing two active ingredients: Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim. It is primarily used to treat bacterial infections. Understanding how each component works individually and synergistically is crucial to appreciating the overall mechanism of action of this medication.
• Sulfamethoxazole is a sulfonamide antibiotic. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of dihydrofolic acid in bacteria. Dihydrofolic acid is a precursor to tetrahydrofolic acid, a vital coenzyme necessary for bacteria to produce nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and proteins. By blocking the production of dihydrofolic acid, sulfamethoxazole essentially halts bacterial growth and multiplication. Specifically, it acts as a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme dihydropteroate synthetase, which is responsible for converting para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) into dihydrofolic acid. Because bacteria cannot synthesize folic acid on their own and must produce it, this inhibition is particularly effective against them.
• Trimethoprim, on the other hand, is a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor. It prevents the conversion of dihydrofolic acid into tetrahydrofolic acid. Tetrahydrofolic acid is essential for bacterial metabolism and growth as it is required for the synthesis of thymidine, purines, and methionine, all crucial building blocks for DNA and proteins. Trimethoprim selectively inhibits the bacterial dihydrofolate reductase enzyme, with significantly less effect on the human enzyme. This selectivity allows it to target bacteria while minimizing harm to the host.
• The combination of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim creates a synergistic effect. By blocking two sequential steps in the folic acid synthesis pathway, the combination achieves a greater degree of inhibition than either drug could achieve alone. Sulfamethoxazole reduces the production of dihydrofolic acid, and trimethoprim prevents its conversion to tetrahydrofolic acid. This sequential blockade effectively starves the bacteria of the essential cofactors they need to survive and replicate. The synergistic action broadens the spectrum of antibacterial activity and reduces the development of resistance. The combined effect makes it effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
• In summary, SEPTRAN DS TABLET 10'S works by disrupting the bacterial folic acid synthesis pathway at two distinct points. Sulfamethoxazole inhibits the formation of dihydrofolic acid, while trimethoprim inhibits the conversion of dihydrofolic acid to tetrahydrofolic acid. This dual mechanism effectively blocks bacterial metabolism, preventing growth and replication, leading to bacterial cell death and resolution of the infection.

Like all medicines, Septran DS can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. **Common Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):** * Nausea (feeling sick) * Vomiting (being sick) * Loss of appetite * Diarrhea * Skin rashes **Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):** * Hives (urticaria) * Itching **Rare Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):** * Swelling of the mouth or tongue * Difficulty breathing * Sore mouth or tongue * Aseptic meningitis * Convulsions (fits) * Kidney problems * Joint pain * Muscle pain * Changes in blood count (e.g., decreased white blood cells, platelets) * Sensitivity to sunlight **Very Rare Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people):** * Serious skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) * Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) * Liver problems (e.g., hepatitis) * Lung problems (e.g., pulmonary infiltrates) * Inflammation of the bowel (pseudomembranous colitis) * Hallucinations * Nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy) * Lack of coordination * Inflammation of the eye (uveitis) * Blood disorders (e.g., agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia) **Side effects where frequency is not known:** * Weakness * Fatigue * Headache * Dizziness * Cough * Shortness of breath

• If you miss a dose of SEPTRAN DS TABLET 10'S, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

• Keep SEPTRAN DS TAB 1X10 away from the reach of children and pets.
• Store SEPTRAN DS TAB 1X10 at room temperature.

• Take Septran DS Tablet as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration. This medication is an antibiotic combination, so it's important to complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better before it's finished, to prevent antibiotic resistance. Septran DS is often taken twice daily, but follow your doctor's specific instructions. It’s best to take it at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level of medication in your body. This medication can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. If you experience nausea, try taking it after a meal.
• Stay hydrated while taking Septran DS. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. This helps to prevent kidney problems, which are a potential side effect of this medication. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Adequate hydration also aids in the overall effectiveness of the antibiotic in fighting infection.
• Be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rash. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, such as severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. Septran DS can also increase your sensitivity to the sun, so use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
• Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Septran DS can interact with several medications, such as certain blood thinners, diuretics, and diabetes medications. Your doctor needs this information to adjust your dosage or monitor you for potential interactions. It's crucial for your safety to disclose all medications you are currently using.
• If you have any underlying health conditions, such as kidney or liver problems, or a history of allergic reactions, inform your doctor before starting Septran DS. This medication may not be suitable for everyone, and your doctor needs to assess the risks and benefits based on your individual health profile. People with G6PD deficiency should use Septran DS with caution, as it can cause hemolytic anemia.

• SEPTRAN DS TABLET 10'S can be taken with or without food. However, it is recommended to take it with plenty of water to prevent crystallization in the kidneys.
• Avoid taking SEPTRAN DS TABLET 10'S with foods or supplements that are high in potassium, as it may increase the risk of hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood).