Sulphamethoxazole BP
Sulphamethoxazole BP is a synthetic sulfonamide antibiotic widely used in human and veterinary medicine for treating bacterial infections. It acts by inhibiting bacterial synthesis of dihydrofolic acid, thereby preventing bacterial growth. It is commonly combined with trimethoprim for synergistic effects against a broad spectrum of bacteria. The British Pharmacopoeia (BP) grade guarantees pharmaceutical purity and quality, making it suitable for formulation into tablets, suspensions, and other dosage forms.
Primary Uses
Human Medicine
Antibacterial Agent: Used to treat urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, and certain opportunistic infections (e.g., Pneumocystis pneumonia).
Combination Therapy: Frequently combined with trimethoprim (co-trimoxazole) to enhance antibacterial efficacy.
Veterinary Medicine
Antimicrobial Agent: Used to treat bacterial infections in livestock and companion animals, including respiratory, urinary, and soft tissue infections.
Medicated Feeds: Included in veterinary feed additives to prevent and control bacterial diseases.
Secondary Uses
Research & Development
Pharmaceutical Studies: Used in drug formulation research and studies on antibiotic resistance.
Microbiological Research: Utilized in bacterial culture sensitivity testing.
Public Health
Prophylactic Use: Occasionally used for prophylaxis against certain infections in immunocompromised patients.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): 4-Amino-N-(5-methyl-3-isoxazolyl)benzenesulfonamide
Common/Trade Name: Sulphamethoxazole BP
CAS Number: 723-46-6
HS Code: 2941.20.00
Synonyms: Sulfamethoxazole, SMX
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: White to off-white crystalline powder
Color & Odor: White; odorless or faint sulfur-like odor
Melting Point: 169–172 °C
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alkaline solutions and organic solvents such as ethanol
Density: Approx. 1.4 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: May cause allergic skin reactions and hypersensitivity
Toxicity: Moderate toxicity; avoid prolonged exposure
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational limits; use proper industrial hygiene
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area protected from light and moisture
Container Type: Sealed HDPE or glass containers
Shelf Life: 24 months under proper storage conditions
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust; use gloves and masks to prevent inhalation and skin contact
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with British Pharmacopoeia (BP) standards
Manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
Meets pharmaceutical regulatory requirements for human and veterinary use
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Limited biodegradability; degrades slowly under aerobic conditions
Ecotoxicity: Potentially harmful to aquatic organisms; avoid release into the environment
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
PPE Required: Gloves, protective clothing, and dust masks recommended
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation and skin contact
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and dry
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms occur
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; discontinue use if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Flush with water for 15 minutes; seek medical care if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice promptly
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Combustible solid
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ extinguishers
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides