Trimethoprim

• trimethoprim inhibits the 3rd step of folate synthesis by inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase, preventing the formation of tetrahydrofolic acid.
• Trimethoprim is also broad spectrum and is effective against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria.
• Trimethoprim is bacteriostatic
• Trimethoprim side effects include

  • bone marrow suppression
  • megaloblastic anemia
  • leukopenia
  • granulocytopenia
  • teratogenic -> neural tube defects