Medications for Meningitis

There are various types of antibiotics which can be prescribed by the doctor to treat bacterial meningitis. Often, a combination of antibiotics proves effective in fighting this deadly disease. Ampicillin, gentamicin, cephalosporins, trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole and vancomycin are some of the medications the health care provider may prescribe.

Corticosteroids can also help reduce the inflammation. Diazepam is a phenytoin which may be given in case seizures occur. Family members exposed to the patient should be given Rifampin to lower the risk of them contracting the meningitis.