List of Appendicitis Medications
There are a few prescription medications that can be used to treat appendicitis. These include antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory medications. (7)
- Antibiotics – Antibiotics are the most common type of medication used to treat the condition. This is because antibiotics can help to clear up any infection that may be present in the appendix. Recent studies have shown that antibiotics may be an effective treatment for appendicitis. In a study of over 1000 patients, those who were treated with antibiotics were less likely to require surgery than those who were not. The study found that the use of antibiotics reduced the risk of surgery by 26%. While these findings are preliminary, they suggest that antibiotics may be a viable alternative to surgery for some patients with appendicitis.
- Painkillers – Appendicitis is typically treated with antibiotics and surgery. However, painkillers may also be used to provide relief from the pain of appendicitis. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are the most commonly used painkillers for appendicitis. These drugs help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Anti-inflammatory medications – There are several anti-inflammatory medications that can be used to treat appendicitis in some cases. Ibuprofen (also dexibuprofen) and naproxen sodium are two of the most commonly used medications for appendicitis. These medications can help reduce inflammation and pain until surgery can be performed. They may also help prevent infection.