NPLEX II Pharmacology Practice Test

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is commonly used for which conditions?

UTIs, otitis media, chlamydial infections, Shigella enteritis, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia Viral infections such as influenza Fungal infections Helminth infections

Correct Answer:

UTIs, otitis media, chlamydial infections, Shigella enteritis, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia

Explanation:

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole works by blocking two steps in bacterial folate synthesis, giving a synergistic bactericidal effect against a broad range of bacteria. This makes it especially useful for infections commonly caused by susceptible organisms, such as urinary tract infections, otitis media, and certain enteric infections like Shigella. It is also the drug of choice for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, a key opportunistic infection. It isn’t active against viruses, most fungi, or helminths, which is why those categories aren’t treated with this medication. Therefore, the listed conditions—UTIs, otitis media, Shigella enteritis, and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia—reflect the typical indications for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.

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