Medicines and Products for Meningitis

Meningitis treatment is given in hospital. The medicine depends on the cause, and for bacterial meningitis it must start as soon as possible.

Bacterial meningitis

• Intravenous antibiotics such as third-generation cephalosporins (ceftriaxone or cefotaxime), often with others depending on age and risk
• Steroids (dexamethasone) given with or before the first antibiotic dose in some cases, to reduce the risk of hearing loss and brain injury
• Preventive antibiotics for close contacts of meningococcal disease, as public health teams advise

Viral meningitis

Most cases need rest, fluids and pain relief. Herpes virus meningitis may be treated with aciclovir.

Tuberculous meningitis

A long course of TB medicines, usually 9 to 12 months, along with steroids in many cases.

Fungal meningitis

Antifungal medicines such as amphotericin B and flucytosine, followed by fluconazole, for weeks to months.

Supportive care

Fluids, oxygen, pain and fever control, anti-seizure medicine, and intensive care for severe cases.

Vaccines

Meningitis vaccines include pneumococcal, Hib and meningococcal vaccines. A doctor advises which to give.

Cautions

• Do not buy antibiotics over the counter or give leftover tablets
• Do not stop a TB course early
• Tell the doctor about allergies, pregnancy and other medicines
• Herbal products are not treatment and should not be used instead of medicine

Key point

Prompt, correct medicine in hospital is what saves life. Do not treat suspected meningitis at home.

Remember

Never share or reuse antibiotics. Follow the exact doses and duration set by the hospital.