Cobactrim 5ml Injection

Cobactrim 5ml Injection contains Co-Trimethoprim (80mg) and Sulphamethoxazole (400mg), a combination antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections.

Benefits

This synergistic combination provides broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is particularly effective for severe infections where oral therapy is not suitable, offering rapid and reliable results.

Uses and Indications

• Respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Gastrointestinal infections, such as shigellosis and traveler's diarrhea.
• Treatment and prevention of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) in immunocompromised patients.
• Septicemia and systemic bacterial infections.
• Nocardiosis and toxoplasmosis.

The Cobactrim 5ml Injection contains:

• Trimethoprim 80 mg (active ingredient).
• Sulfamethoxazole 400 mg (active ingredient).

Dosage and Administration

1. Cobactrim 5ml Injection is for intravenous (IV) administration only and must be diluted before use.
2. The infusion should be administered slowly over 60 to 90 minutes.
3. Dosage depends on the type and severity of infection, patient's age, weight, and renal function.
4. For adults, typical doses range from 5-10 mL (equivalent to 80-160 mg trimethoprim and 400-800 mg sulfamethoxazole) per dose, given every 6-12 hours.
5. Each 5ml ampoule should be diluted with at least 125ml of compatible fluid (e.g., Glucose 5% or Sodium Chloride 0.9%).
6. Do not administer by rapid infusion or bolus injection.
7. Consult a healthcare professional for precise dosage instructions.

Storage and Disposal

• Store below 25°C, protected from light.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze the concentrate.
• Diluted solutions must be used within a specific timeframe (e.g., 6 hours if diluted with 125ml D5W, or 2 hours if diluted with 75ml D5W for fluid restriction).
• Discard any unused portion after the prescribed duration.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Precautions and Safety

• Inform your doctor if you have allergies to trimethoprim or sulfonamides, severe renal or hepatic impairment, severe allergies, asthma, G6PD deficiency, porphyria, or folate deficiency.
• Co-trimoxazole can increase sensitivity to sunlight; wear protective clothing and use sunscreen.
• Close monitoring is advised for patients with renal impairment or those on prolonged therapy.
• Concomitant administration with certain medicines or potassium-rich foods may lead to severe hyperkalaemia.
• Not recommended for infants younger than 2 months due to kernicterus risk.
• Discontinue immediately if severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) occur.

Side Effects and Risks

• Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, and skin rashes.
• Other reported side effects include increased potassium level in blood (hyperkalemia), Candida overgrowth, joint or muscle pain, and pain or irritation at the injection site.
• Serious but rare side effects can include severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis), blood disorders (agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia), liver inflammation, and kidney problems.
• If you experience severe diarrhea (watery or bloody stools), fever, chills, shortness of breath, unusual bleeding or bruising, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, seek immediate medical attention.

Disclaimer

Use this medicine only under the prescription and guidance of a qualified doctor or pharmacist.