MRSA is a staph infection that is resistant to many antibiotics like methicillin, penicillin, and oxacillin. It is responsive to some antibiotics like trimethoprim. This infection can be acquired in a medical facility or in the community. The specific strain of bacteria can be identified and the most effective antibiotic can be chosen for the treatment. Trimethoprim is chosen to treat skin infections and has proven to be effective in treating CA-MRSA. This antibiotic has been in use since 1962 and is an affordable antibiotic that is usually taken one to two times a day in tablet form.
Trimethoprim was prescribed with sulfamethoxazole because it was believed to have a synergistic effect. Actual clinical trials didn’t support the claim and with sulfamethoxazole causing bone marrow toxicity, the combination has been declining since around 1980. With the antibiotic, trimethoprim, no longer only being available in combination, it has become more widely used due to its effectiveness. This antibiotic is also known by the following names:
The antibiotic can cross the placenta so it is not recommended for women who are pregnant. It can be used to prevent infections like pnemonia and is commonly used for urinary infections. Combined with other drugs it is effective in preventing and treating pneumonia. There are some side effects to trimethoprim when use for treating infections.
Trimethoprim side effects are more likely in people who are allergic or sensitive to trimethoprim, sulfa drugs, diuretics, or oral diabetes medications, so a doctor may choose not to prescribe this particular antibiotic to treat MRSA. Side affects can include the following:
- Problems swallowing
- Sore throat
- Mouth sores
- Flu like symptoms
Some side effects can be serious, especially if they include swelling around the face, so a healthcare professional should be made aware any side effects. Sometimes an alternative treatment will be necessary.
When there are serious side effects, trimethoprim may need to be discontinued in the treatment. There are other antibiotics that can be used, depending on the strain of bacteria. Some alternative treatments, like Manuka honey may be effective, but may take longer to kill the bacteria. A healthcare professional should monitor the infection to avoid it from spreading and causing complications. Other alternative treatments can include lancing, draining, surgery, or removing a prosthetic. This antibiotic may need to be combined with other antibiotics to prevent resistant strains from developing and to be more effective in MRSA treatment.
Only a healthcare professional can choose which antibiotic will most effectively for treatment. Tests should be done to identify bacteria that are causing the infection to be certain the best antibiotic is chosen for treatment.