Comparative study on the use of co-trimoxazole and tetracycline in the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections

Summary

A double-blind trial was carried out on 116 patients with lower respiratory tract infection and systemic manifestations. One group received co-trimoxazole (480 mg. trimethoprim and 2, 400 mg. sulphamethoxazole daily), and the other group received 2 g. tetracycline daily. The trial, as judged by clinical improvements, the reduction of purulent sputum and the rate of eradication of infection, showed a better result with co-trimoxazole. The incidence of side-effects were higher in the group receiving tetracycline compared with those receiving co-trimoxazole.

Key words::

• Co-trimoxazole
• tetracycline
• respiratory tract infections