Final answer:
Trimethoprim + Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMZ) is a combination of two drugs that work together to inhibit folic acid synthesis and treat bacterial infections. When used in combination, these drugs are bactericidal and result in bacterial death. However, caution should be exercised during early pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Trimethoprim + Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMZ) is a combination of two drugs that work together to treat various bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, ear infections, and bronchitis. Trimethoprim is a synthetic antimicrobial compound that inhibits a late step in the folic acid synthesis pathway, while sulfamethoxazole is a sulfa drug that decreases production of folic acid. When used in combination, these drugs synergistically inhibit folic acid synthesis to a level that is lethal to the bacterial cell, resulting in bacterial death. However, because of the potential risks to fetal development, the use of these drugs should be carefully considered during early pregnancy.