Pharmacokinetic synergy

A widely available fixed combination is co-trimoxazole (Bactrim, Eusaprim, Septrin), which contains trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole in a ratio of 1 5. Both trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole have favorable and comparable pharmacokinetics and the combination is bactericidal (4). Synergy between trimethoprim and sulfonamides has conventionally been ascribed to sequential inhibition of dihydropteroate synthetase by sulfonamides (in competition with pora-aminobenzoic acid) and of dihydrofolate reductase by trimethoprim (in competition with dihydrofolate). However, sulfonamides in high concentrations also inhibit dihydrofolate reductase. Thus, an initial partial sequential blockade by trimethoprim (inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase) and sulfonamides (inhibition of dihydropteroate synthetase) leads to defective protein synthesis and cytoplasmic damage, which in turn results in marked increases in the uptake of both agents and double strength inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase (5). 

At a fundamental level, a determination must be made whether a biological mechanism for an interaction exists. The most common pharmacokinetic mechanisms include metabolic inhibition or induction, protein binding displacement, and interference with absorption. Potential pharmacodynamic synergy or antagonism must also be considered. Interactions must be considered from the perspective of... 

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