Potentiated-Sulphonamides
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Potentiated-sulponamides are a combination of a sulphonamide and trimethoprim. By combining the two types of antibiotics the mixture becomes bactericidal and increases their spectrum of activity. In practice they are often referred to as T.M.S or Trimethoprim Sulphate.
Mechanism of Action
The combination of sulphonamide and trimethoprim means that the bacterial nucleotide sythesis pathway is attacked at two seperate points. This produces a bactericidal, time-dependent killing affect. To find out how sulphonamides work click here and to discover the same about trimethoprim click here.
Spectrum of Activity
The combined nature of the drug mean that they are very broad spectrum and the main species of note that isn't affected is Pseudomonas.
Pharmacokinetic Considerations
The half-life of all these drugs are relatively short but their pharmacokinetic properties will depend upon the precise mixture of sulphonamide and trimethoprim, so it is best to check in a formulary before use.
They all have good tissue penetration and will readily cross the blood brain barrier. As resistance is now a problem with these drugs their efficacy is starting to become limited.