Antibiotics: Folate Synthesis Inhibitors Flashcards
List 2 examples of folate synthesis inhibitors.
Trimethoprim
Metronidazole
Describe the mechanism of action of folate synthesis inhibitors. (2)
- Inhibit folate synthesis, therefore disrupting folate metabolism
- This causes impaired nucleotide synthesis
a. Therefore, DNA replication is impaired
How is trimethoprim administered?
Oral
List 4 adverse effects of trimethoprim.
Elevated serum creatinine
Elevated serum potassium
Rash
GI disturbance
Describe combination therapy containing trimethoprim.
What does this contain?
What are the adverse effects?
Co-trimoxazole
Contains: trimethoprim PLUS sulphamethoxazole
Disadvantages:
- Increased bone marrow suppression
- Stevens Johnson syndrome
Which condition is trimethoprim used for?
Which 5 bacteria commonly cause this?
Uncomplicated UTI
E. coli Other coliforms Enterococcus Pseudomonas Staphylococcus
How is metronidazole administered?
Oral
Describe the mechanism of action of metronidazole. (2)
- Enters bacterial cells via passive diffusion
- Produces free radicals
a. This causes damage and cell lysis
List 2 adverse effects of metronidazole.
Unpleasant reaction with alcohol
Peripheral neuropathy
Which 3 conditions is metronidazole used for?
Which type of bacteria is it most effective against?
Intra-abdominal infection
Abscess
Pseudomembranous colitis
Good activity against: anaerobes
Which 2 drugs are used to treat uncomplicated UTIs?
Trimethoprim
Nitrofuratoin
Which drugs are used to treat more severe UTIs? Consider:
a) Complicated UTIs (1)
b) Severely unwell patients (2)
Complicated UTIs:
-Ciprofloxacin
Severely unwell patients:
- Amoxicillin
- Gentamicin
Which 5 antibiotics are NOT safe in pregnancy and should NOT be given to pregnant women?
Tetracyclines Trimethoprim Nitrofurantoin Aminoglycosides Quinolones
