Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Exam Prep 2026 – Complete Practice Resource

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is commonly used to treat MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infections due to its effectiveness against certain strains of this bacterium. This combination antibiotic works by inhibiting bacterial folic acid synthesis, which is necessary for bacterial growth and replication. MRSA is known for its resistance to many standard antibiotics, making it essential to choose treatment options that are effective against resistant strains.

The use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole has a proven track record in clinical settings for treating uncomplicated MRSA skin infections, especially in mild to moderate cases. It is often a first-line option for outpatient treatment of MRSA due to its oral bioavailability, which makes it more convenient for patients.

In contrast, the other antibiotics mentioned are less effective against MRSA. Ciprofloxacin is primarily used for gram-negative infections and is not typically effective against MRSA. Amoxicillin is ineffective against MRSA due to its susceptibility to beta-lactam antibiotics, which MRSA has developed resistance against. Clindamycin is also effective for MRSA, particularly in skin and soft tissue infections, but trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a more commonly prescribed option in many