These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are anti-inflammatory medications that treat pain, swelling, and fever in various conditions, including arthritic diseases and disorders, menstrual pain and infections.
These drugs work by hindering the body’s ability to produce hormone-like chemicals that cause inflammation, fever, and pain.
The two types of NSAIDs that can be recommended for meningitis include ibuprofen and naproxen, both of which can be found OTC or prescribed.
If given in a prescription, ibuprofen is taken orally as a pill or liquid. If found OTC, it comes in tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, gel capsules, liquid, or drops. The dose depends on the strength of the medication, and both prescribed and OTC versions come with complete instruction packets.
Typically, ibuprofen is taken every four to six hours if prescribed and every six to eight hours if OTC. No more than four doses should be given in a 24-hour period.
It should also be taken with food or milk to prevent gastrointestinal side effects. The total list of side effects includes:
- Constipation
- Gas or bloating
- Dizziness
- Nervousness
- Ringing in the ears