Trimethoprim

In less-developed countries, inexpensive and well-tolerated antibiotics for therapy of streptococcal infections are often not available. Scientists have discovered that trimethoprim may provide an option. Bacteria are not generally resistant to this agent. In a new publication scientists demonstrated three pathways for the development of resistance -- meaning that streptococci can easily become resistant to the antibiotic and pass on this trait quickly.

Trimethoprim inhibits an enzyme of folic acid metabolism called dihydrofolate reductase, which plays an important role in bacterial growth. Trimethoprim thus prevents bacteria from proliferating in the body.

A new study shows that the antibiotic trimethoprim is a therapeutic option for Streptococcus pyogenes infections in some geographical regions of the world.

For further details, see:

R. Bergmann, M. van der Linden, G. S. Chhatwal, D. P. Nitsche-Schmitz. Factors That Cause Trimethoprim Resistance in Streptococcus pyogenes. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 2014; 58 (4): 2281 DOI: 10.1128/AAC.02282-13

 Posted by Tim Sandle