Medicines to treat pressure on the brain caused by meningitis

Medicines used to treat pressure on the brain caused by meningitis include:

• Dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol, and Solurex).
• Mannitol (Osmitrol).

These medicines reduce swelling (inflammation) in the brain tissues, which may lower the risk of developing short-term complications such as seizures and long-term complications such as hearing loss.

Taking dexamethasone along with the first course of antibiotics is recommended for adults with pneumococcal meningitis.^{1, 2} It has been shown to lower the chance of disability and death.

Some side effects that can occur from these medicines include nausea and stomach discomfort, drowsiness or trouble sleeping, mood swings, and ringing in the ears.

Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: January 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
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