Toxic Shock Syndrome: Medications
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Medications
Antibiotics are used to treat toxic shock syndrome. The sooner antibiotics are started, the less likely the possibility of serious complications. Antibiotics are given as long as necessary, which depends on the strep or staph bacteria identified and the severity of symptoms.
Antibiotics may also help prevent a repeat episode of toxic shock syndrome.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) can be used when toxic shock syndrome is severe or does not improve with antibiotics. Intravenous immunoglobulin works differently than antibiotics. It contains antibodies that can help the body remove the specific toxins causing TSS. But experts have not determined if IVIG is effective for treating TSS.
Your doctor may give you medicines to help with your blood pressure and to help your organs work better.
With prompt treatment and no major complications, most people recover completely in 1 to 2 weeks.
| Last updated: | March 03, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Dennis L. Stevens, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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