Meningitis refers to a rapidly developing inflammation of the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord due to a bacterial or viral infection. A bacterial or viral infection of this membrane, called the meninges, causes the immune system to mount an attack against these foreign pathogens, thereby resulting in an inflammation of the central nervous system, a hallmark of meningitis. According to MayoClinic.com, symptoms associated with meningitis include a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and vomiting or nausea with headache. Antibiotics are used in the treatment of meningitis.
Cefotaxime
Cefotaxime is a third-generation cephalosporin used for the treatment of bacterial infections such as meningitis. According to Drugs.com, cefotaxime exhibits bactericidal properties by weakening and rupturing the bacterial cell wall. This rupturing of the bacterial cell wall kills the bacterial organism and inhibits the spread of infection. Side effects commonly associated with cefotaxime include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a headache. Cefotaxime is administered either intravenously or intramuscularly.
Ampicillin
Ampicillin is a penicillin antibiotic prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infection resulting in meningitis, salmonella and pneumonia. Ampicillin exhibits bactericidal activities by interacting with penicillin-binding proteins on the interior of the bacterial cell membrane. This binding inhibits the formation of the bacterial cell wall thereby forcing the bacterial organism to release substances that kill the cell. According to Rxlist.com, side effects commonly associated with ampicillin include abnormal bleeding, fever, confusion and bloody or watery diarrhea.
Gentamicin
Gentamicin is an antibiotic prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections of the meninges, skin, lungs and urinary tracts. Gentamicin is administered as an intramuscular injection in the hips or buttocks. According to John Hopkins Point of Care Technology Information, a combination of penicillin and intravenous gentamicin is recommended for the treatment of meningitis due to a Listeria monocytogenes infection. Side effects commonly associated with gentamicin are fatigue, stomach problems and vomiting.
