Can I take two tablets of regular strength Septra (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) to achieve the same dose as one double strength tablet?

From the Guidelines

Yes, you can take two tablets of regular strength Septra (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) to achieve the same dose as one double strength tablet. Regular strength Septra contains 80 mg of trimethoprim and 400 mg of sulfamethoxazole per tablet, while double strength tablets contain 160 mg of trimethoprim and 800 mg of sulfamethoxazole. Therefore, taking two regular strength tablets provides the equivalent medication as one double strength tablet. However, before making this substitution, check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure it's appropriate for your specific situation. The dosing schedule should remain the same as prescribed for the double strength tablets. This equivalence works because the active ingredients are identical in both formulations, just in different concentrations. If you experience any unusual side effects after making this switch, contact your healthcare provider promptly, as noted in various guidelines 1.

Some key points to consider:

• The dosage of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can vary based on the condition being treated and the patient's renal function, as outlined in guidelines such as those for the management of chronic kidney disease in patients infected with HIV 1.
• It's crucial to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and to consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
• The guidelines for preventing opportunistic infections among HIV-infected persons, such as those from the U.S. Public Health Service and the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1, provide recommendations on the use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for prophylaxis against Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and other infections.

Always prioritize consulting with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan.

From the FDA Drug Label

Adults: The usual adult dosage in the treatment of urinary tract infections is 1 sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim double strength tablet or 2 sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim tablets every 12 hours for 10 to 14 days Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis in Adults The usual adult dosage in the treatment of acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis is 1 sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim double strength tablet or 2 sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim single strength tablets every 12 hours for 14 days Traveler’s Diarrhea in Adults For the treatment of traveler’s diarrhea, the usual adult dosage is 1 sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim double strength tablet or 2 sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim single strength tablets every 12 hours for 5 days

Yes, you can take two tablets of regular strength Septra (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) to achieve the same dose as one double strength tablet, as indicated in the dosage instructions for various conditions, including urinary tract infections, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, and traveler’s diarrhea 2 2.

From the Research

Dosage Equivalence

• The question of whether taking two tablets of regular strength Septra (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) is equivalent to taking one double strength tablet can be examined by looking at the dosage information provided in the studies.
• A double-strength tablet of Septra typically contains 160 mg of Trimethoprim and 800 mg of Sulfamethoxazole 3.
• Therefore, taking two regular strength tablets would indeed provide the same amount of active ingredients as one double-strength tablet, assuming a regular strength tablet contains 80 mg of Trimethoprim and 400 mg of Sulfamethoxazole.
• However, it's essential to consult the specific product labeling or a healthcare professional to confirm the dosage equivalence, as formulations may vary.

Clinical Implications

• Studies have shown that trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is effective in treating various infections, including urinary tract infections 3, 4, 5 and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia 6.
• The efficacy and safety of different dosing regimens, including single-dose and multiple-dose therapies, have been evaluated in these studies.
• While the studies provide valuable information on the use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, they do not directly address the question of taking two regular strength tablets as a substitute for one double-strength tablet.

Conclusion Not Applicable

• As per the instructions, no conclusion section should be provided.
• The information provided is based on the available evidence and should not be considered as advice or recommendation.
• It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for specific guidance on medication use and dosage.