What medications help treat meningitis?
-
Viral meningitis is not currently treated with drugs. Rest is the most effective treatment. Bacterial meningitis, however, typically poses a more serious threat, and is treated with antibiotics. Fungal meningitis is treated with antifungal medication. Children more than six weeks old may be given steroids to reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of neurological problems.
Viral meningitis is not currently treated with drugs. Rest is the most effective treatment. Bacterial meningitis, however, typically poses a more serious threat, and is treated with antibiotics. Fungal meningitis is treated with antifungal... More -
Dr. Darshan Shah of NorthShore University HealthSystem answered:Treatment is based on the cause of the meningitis. Most cases of viral meningitis are treated with rest, fluids, and pain medications which can reduce the symptoms of headache and neck stiffness. If the cause of the viral meningitis is determined to be a Herpes infection, antiviral medications (e.g. acyclovir or valcyclovir) are also used. Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotics and fungal meningitis is treated with antifungals in addition to the supportive treatments mentioned such as close monitoring for seizures or breathign difficulty, fluids, rest and pain medications. In cases of Herpes, bacterial and fungal meningitis, treatment is necessary to prevent the organism from multiplying and for allowing the body's immune system to fight the infection.
Treatment is based on the cause of the meningitis. Most cases of viral meningitis are treated with rest, fluids, and pain medications which can reduce the symptoms of headache and neck stiffness. If the cause of the viral meningitis is... More -
Healthwise answered:The decision about what medicine to use depends on the organism causing the infection, the extent of the infection and the person's age and general health.
Medication choices
Medicines used for treating meningitis include:
- Antibiotics to treat bacterial infection. Often two antibiotics are given together. Antibiotics aren't given for viral meningitis.
- Medicines to treat seizures.
- Medicines to treat pressure on the brain.
- Medicines to treat fever and muscle aches. The most common ones are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen (Tylenol).
The decision about what medicine to use depends on the organism causing the infection, the extent of the infection and the person's age and general health. Medication choices Medicines used for treating meningitis include: Antibiotics to treat... More
