Pneumococcal Meningitis Treatment

Pneumococcal bacteria are commonly carried in the nose and back of the throat and usually cause minor conditions such as bronchitis. However, pneumococcal bacteria can also cause bacterial meningitis. This is when the lining of the brain and spinal cord becomes inflamed, which can cause serious complications or death. Antibiotic treatment should be given as soon as possible after diagnosis.

Ceftriaxone

• According to the New York Times Health Guide for pneumococcal meningitis, ceftriaxone is one of the antibiotics most commonly used for treating this form of meningitis. Ceftriaxone is a cephalosporin antibiotic that fights bacteria. According to the ceftriaxone information sheet on Drugs.com, people who are allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics should not take this drug. Ceftriaxone is given as an injection, so it is often given in a hospital setting. However, you may be given instructions on how to administer the injections at home. Follow all these instructions carefully and store the medication away from excessive heat, light and moisture. Carefully dispose of needles and syringes that have been used in administering each ceftriaxone injection. Take the medication as instructed and keep taking it until you have taken the entire prescribed course of the antibiotic. Side effects may include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, headache, pain or swelling in the tongue, dizziness, sweating, and vaginal itching or discharge.

Rifampin

• According to the New York Times Health Guide on pneumococcal meningitis, Rifampin is an antibiotic that can be used to treat pneumococcal meningitis if ceftriaxone is ineffective. This drug comes in capsule form and is to be taken orally. Let your doctor know if you are allergic to any medications and discuss your current prescriptions with your physician to help avoid any drug interactions. The National Institutes of Health offers information on Rifampin and discloses that the drug can cause drowsiness, so do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Always take the entire course of the drug as prescribed for the best results. Rifampin can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, chills, vomiting, heartburn, bone pain, upset stomach, headache and muscle pain. Seek medical attention if you develop a skin rash, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or sores on the skin or in the mouth.

Vancomycin

• The New York Times Health Guide on pneumococcal meningitis lists vancomycin as an antibiotic that can be used if ceftriaxone does not successfully treat pneumococcal meningitis. This drug is an antibiotic used to eliminate streptococcal bacteria that cause many types of infections. According to the Drugs.com reference sheet on vancomycin, the drug is administered as an injection. Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to medications and be sure to let a health care provider know if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Vancomycin side effects can include dizziness, back pain, muscle pain and tightness, and nausea. More serious side effects that require medical attention include hearing loss, ringing in the ears, fever, chills, flu symptoms, skin rash or redness, severe stomach pain, or watery or bloody diarrhea.