Trimethoprim
Buy Trimethoprim after completing our online consultation for cystitis
Prices include next-day delivery and prescription
| 6 Tablets £14.99 |
Select your treatment after the consultation:
Please note that the first line treatment for cystitis that is caused by a bacterial UTI is Nitrofurantoin, as there is quite a high bacterial resistance to Trimethoprim. Therefore it is wise to only use Trimethoprim to treat a UTI after a urine test has confirmed that the bacterial strain causing the infection is sensitive to Trimethoprim. Please note that this treatment is currently only offered for female patients. If you are male and are experiencing symptoms of a urinary tract infection, you should visit your GP or a sexual health clinic as this could be a sign of another infection or a more serious underlying problem.
More info about Trimethoprim
What is Trimethoprim?
Trimethoprim is a medicine that effectively treats bacterial infections.
It is commonly used to help with cystitis (a type of urinary tract infection, or UTI). This infection can happen when bacteria from the outside of your body get into the urinary tract.
UTIs can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as a burning feeling when urinating and abdominal pain.
By taking Trimethoprim, you can stop the infection from spreading so your body can fight it off.
At HealthExpress, you can buy 200mg Trimethoprim tablets. Please note: Trimethoprim is not the first-line treatment for cystitis. You will require a urine test before ordering this medicine online.
Please note - orders approved before 4:30 pm Monday to Friday (excluding weekends and bank holidays) will be received the next day.
How does Trimethoprim work?
Trimethoprim works by stopping the bacteria from growing, which slows down the spread of the infection. This makes it much easier for your body’s immune system to fight it off.
It is important to treat cystitis as soon as you feel it. By delaying treatment, you risk the infection spreading to your other organs, such as the bladder and kidneys.
When you start taking Trimethoprim, your symptoms might go away quickly. Even if you feel completely better, make sure you finish the course.
If you don’t finish the entire course of medicine, there is a risk that the infection will come back.
What are the benefits of Trimethoprim?
A medicine like Trimethoprim will quickly stop all the uncomfortable symptoms that come with a UTI.
The treatment works very quickly, meaning your symptoms will improve within hours of taking the medicine.
It is also:
- clinically tried and tested
- low in risk of side effects
How do I use Trimethoprim?
You should start using Trimethoprim as soon as you realise you have cystitis. The sooner you start treatment, the better.
To take the medicine, swallow the tablet with water - do not crush or chew it.
How much medicine you take depends on your infection. Your doctor or online health provider will give you the amount that’s best for you.
The usual dosage instructions are as follows:
- To treat an acute cystitis infection, take 200mg twice daily for 3 days.
- To prevent frequent UTIs, take 100mg once daily before bed.
- To prevent a recurrent infection after coming into contact with a trigger, take one 200mg tablet.
When taking any medicine, make sure you finish all the tablets you have been given. Stopping the medicine early might cause the infection to come back.
Also, make sure you read the patient information leaflet (PIL) that comes with your treatment.
What if I forget to take a tablet?
Don’t panic if you forget to take a dose of your medicine. Just take your tablet as soon as you remember it.
If you’ve forgotten about it all day, it will be best to skip it completely. Continue taking your medicine as normal - you will just finish the course of treatment one day later than planned.
Once again, never take two tablets together.
What are the potential side effects?
As with all medicines, there is a risk of side effects.
If you do experience any, they normally go away once you’ve finished the course of medicine.
Here is a list of some of the common side effects:
- loss of appetite
- sore throat
- skin rashes
- diarrhoea
- anaemia (feeling tired and weak)
If you experience rare side effects that haven’t gone away, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
If the medicine causes an allergic reaction (swelling of the face or breathing difficulties) seek immediate medical attention.
What precautions should I take?
Before taking Trimethoprim for the first time, make sure none of the following apply to you:
- you have a folate deficiency
- you have kidney or liver problems
- you are allergic to the medicine’s active ingredients
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have acute porphyria
- you have a vitamin deficiency
- you have a blood disorder
- you have diabetes
Some medicines can have bad reactions with Trimethoprim. Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following treatments:
- repaglinide (for diabetes)
- diuretics
- digoxin (for heart problems)
- anticoagulants (for blood clots)
- ciclosporin
- rifampicin (for tuberculosis)
- pyrimethamine (for malaria)
Other precautions
If there is a chance that you may be pregnant, do not take Trimethoprim.
This treatment can have very harmful effects on an unborn baby, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. It can affect the development of the baby’s brain and spine.
Trimethoprim can also pass into your breast milk, meaning you might accidentally give the treatment to your baby. This is unlikely if you take the medicine for a short time. However, always check with your doctor before taking any treatment.
It is safe to drink alcohol while on Trimethoprim. However, drinking too much alcohol whilst on it can increase your risk of side effects.
For questions about this medicine, ask your doctor or look through the patient information leaflet (PIL).
Can I buy Trimethoprim tablets safely online?
You can buy Trimethoprim tablets safely online at HealthExpress.
Simply fill out the online form to complete your consultation, which will be reviewed by one of our UK-registered doctors.
If it is safe for you to take the treatment, we will send your order right to your door on the following day.
| Product name | Trimethoprim |
| Active ingredient(s) | Trimethoprim |
| Manufacturer | Crescent Pharma |
| Lowest price | £14.99 |
| Trustpilot rating | 4.8/5 |
| Trustpilot reviews | 590 |
| Availability | In stock |
| Description | Trimethoprim is an antibiotic that is used as an effective treatment for the bladder infection cystitis. |
| Exemption | Subject to medical prescription |
| Administration | Oral |
| Presentation | Tablets |
| Available dosage(s) | 100mg, 200mg |
| Application | Women over 18 with the symptoms of cystitis |
| Usage | Take 1 tablet twice a day for up to 14 days |
| Drug class | Sulfonamides and folic acid inhibitors |
| Alcohol consumption | No influence |
| Breastfeeding/pregnancy | Caution is recommended, ask your doctor |
Note: Decisions about treatment are for both the prescriber and the person to jointly consider during the consultation. However, the final decision will always be the prescriber’s.
Trimethoprim FAQs
What is Trimethoprim used for?
Trimethoprim is an antibiotic used to treat infections of the urinary tract (UTIs) and respiratory tract.
How effective is Trimethoprim for a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
Trimethoprim is one of the most effective and commonly prescribed treatments for a UTI. Clinical studies have shown it is over 90% effective within 3 days of treatment with a low risk of adverse effects.
Can Trimethoprim cure chlamydia?
No, Trimethoprim is not prescribed for Chlamydia. Antibiotics such as Azithromycin and Doxycycline are more effective for chlamydia.
Does Trimethoprim contain penicillin?
No, Trimethoprim contains the active ingredient of the same name. It belongs to a different class of antibiotics.
Can you buy Trimethoprim over the counter?
No, Trimethoprim is only available on prescription.
Should Trimethoprim be taken with food?
Trimethoprim can be taken with or without food.
Why do I need to take Trimethoprim at night?
Taking Trimethoprim at night has been found to promote better drug absorption in the body, especially for those who have chronic UTIs and are trying to prevent symptoms. The dosage for prevention is one 100 mg Trimethoprim tablet each night. We do not offer this dose at HealthExpress and you must speak to your doctor if you are experiencing frequent UTIs.
How long does Trimethoprim take to work?
Trimethoprim typically starts working within a few days, but it may take up to a week for the full effects to be seen. Even if you start to feel better, you must take the full course of treatment to ensure success. If you are still experiencing symptoms after taking Trimethoprim for a week, speak with your doctor.
Can Trimethoprim make you dizzy?
Yes, dizziness can occur in some people, but it is a very rare side effect. However, you should still wait to drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Trimethoprim affects you.
Can you drink alcohol with Trimethoprim?
Yes, you can drink alcohol whilst on Trimethoprim. However, the effects of the alcohol may make any side effects you're experiencing worse. It's always best to drink in moderation.
Can you take paracetamol with Trimethoprim?
Yes, you can take paracetamol whilst on Trimethoprim to alleviate any discomfort from the UTI.
Can you take Trimethoprim and Nitrofurantoin together?
Whilst some research has shown them to work effectively together, taking either Trimethoprim or Nitrofurantoin on its own is effective in treating a UTI. You should never take two antibiotics together without consulting your doctor first.
Is it safe to buy Trimethoprim online?
Yes, buying Trimethoprim through HealthExpress is safe. We follow strict UK doctor and pharmacy regulations and only offer genuine medication. Trimethoprim will only be prescribed by one of our doctors following an online consultation if treatment is suitable for you. Our secure payment ensures your privacy and safety. HealthExpress is a certified online pharmacy, and our customer service team is available to address any concerns you may have.
Will my order be confidential?
Yes, we will ensure your order is delivered to your chosen address in discreet packaging. The packaging will not have any reference to the brand ‘HealthExpress’ or the contents. Billing will also be discreet.
Is the price inclusive of all costs?
Yes, the price listed is all-inclusive. This means that the price covers the cost of the consultation, prescription, medication, and next-day delivery. There are no surprising hidden fees.
What are the delivery options available?
We offer several delivery options within the UK to ensure you receive your order quickly and securely.
Next-day delivery
: Free with Royal Mail.Nominated-day delivery
: Free with Royal Mail. Choose your preferred delivery date.
For more information on delivery options, please click here.

