Antibiotics Prescribed for Meningitis
Meningitis, an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the brain and
spinal cord, is caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. Between
1,000 and 3,000 cases of bacterial meningitis occur in the United
States each year. The condition occurs most commonly in infants and
persons with certain medical conditions, including persons without a
spleen. Teenagers and college freshman are at an increased risk for getting
meningitis. There are several different types of bacteria that can
cause meningitis: types A, C, W, and Y cause the majority of cases in
persons older than 11 years, while type B causes the majority of cases in
infants.
Various antibiotics are prescribed for the treatment of bacterial meningitis.
Third-generation cephalosporins, such as cef-otaxime (Claforan)
and ceftriaxone (Rocephin), along with vancomycin (Vancocin) may be
used to treat bacterial meningitis. However, bacterial meningitis is fatal in
approximately 10% of persons diagnosed with the condition. Available
vaccines for prevention of bacterial meningitis include Menomune,
Menactra, and Menveo. These vaccines protect against bacteria types
A, C, W, and Y. However, there is currently no vaccine available for
protection against bacteria type B.