Field trials with trimethoprim and sulphadoxine

Abstract

Extract

Sir, — Trimethoprim (2,4-diamino-5-(3,4,5,trimethoxy-benzyl) pyrimidine) is an inhibitor of the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase and blocks its action in bacterial cell metabolism. Sulphonamides act similarly on a different enzyme and, when the two are used in combination, clinical results are much enhanced and a synergistic effect has been shown in vitro.