Mononukleoza zakaźna
Leczenie

Mononukleoza zakaźna, wywoływana najczęściej przez wirus Epsteina-Barr (EBV), nie posiada specyficznej terapii przeciwwirusowej, dlatego leczenie opiera się na postępowaniu objawowym i wspomagającym. Kluczowe jest zapewnienie odpoczynku, odpowiedniego nawodnienia oraz stosowanie leków przeciwbólowych i przeciwgorączkowych, takich jak NLPZ (ibuprofen, naproxen) lub paracetamol. Wskazane jest także łagodzenie bólu gardła poprzez płukanie roztworem soli (0,5 łyżeczki soli na szklankę ciepłej wody) oraz stosowanie pastylek i sprejów. Należy unikać intensywnego wysiłku fizycznego i sportów kontaktowych przez minimum 3-4 tygodnie, zwłaszcza przy powiększonej śledzionie, aby zapobiec ryzyku jej pęknięcia. Antybiotyki nie są skuteczne w mononukleozie, a stosowanie amoksycyliny i penicylin może wywołać charakterystyczną wysypkę skórną. Kortykosteroidy są zarezerwowane dla ciężkich powikłań, takich jak obrzęk dróg oddechowych, małopłytkowość czy powikłania neurologiczne, i powinny być stosowane z ostrożnością oraz stopniowo odstawiane po poprawie klinicznej.

Mononukleoza zakaźna – leczenie

Mononukleoza zakaźna to choroba wirusowa wywoływana najczęściej przez wirus Epsteina-Barr (EBV). W leczeniu tej choroby nie istnieje specyficzna terapia przeciwwirusowa, która skutecznie eliminowałaby zakażenie. Postępowanie terapeutyczne koncentruje się głównie na leczeniu objawowym i wspomagającym, które ma na celu złagodzenie dolegliwości oraz zapobieganie powikłaniom.12

Leczenie objawowe

Podstawą leczenia mononukleozy zakaźnej jest odpowiednie postępowanie objawowe, które obejmuje:

  • Odpoczynek – szczególnie w pierwszym okresie choroby, gdy objawy są najbardziej nasilone. Należy zapewnić organizmowi wystarczającą ilość czasu na regenerację i walkę z infekcją.12
  • Odpowiednie nawodnienie – spożywanie dużej ilości płynów zapobiega odwodnieniu i wspomaga proces zdrowienia.12
  • Leki przeciwbólowe i przeciwgorączkowe – w celu złagodzenia bólu gardła, gorączki, bólu głowy i mięśni zaleca się stosowanie niesteroidowych leków przeciwzapalnych (NLPZ) takich jak ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) lub naproxen (Aleve), a także paracetamol (Tylenol).12
  • Łagodzenie bólu gardła – można stosować płukanie gardła ciepłą wodą z solą (roztwór 0,5 łyżeczki soli w szklance ciepłej wody), pastylki do ssania lub spreje do gardła.12

Ograniczenia aktywności fizycznej

Szczególnie ważnym elementem leczenia mononukleozy zakaźnej jest unikanie intensywnego wysiłku fizycznego i sportów kontaktowych przez co najmniej 3-4 tygodnie od początku choroby, a nawet dłużej, jeśli utrzymuje się powiększenie śledziony. Ma to na celu zapobieganie pęknięciu śledziony, które stanowi poważne, potencjalnie zagrażające życiu powikłanie.123

Zalecenia dotyczące aktywności fizycznej obejmują:

  • Unikanie sportów kontaktowych (np. piłka nożna, koszykówka, zapasy) przez minimum 4 tygodnie12
  • Unikanie podnoszenia ciężkich przedmiotów1
  • Stopniowy powrót do normalnej aktywności fizycznej12
  • Konsultacja z lekarzem przed powrotem do intensywnych ćwiczeń1

Farmakoterapia

W leczeniu mononukleozy zakaźnej należy zwrócić uwagę na odpowiedni dobór leków:

Antybiotyki

Antybiotyki nie są skuteczne w leczeniu mononukleozy zakaźnej, ponieważ choroba ma etiologię wirusową.1 Należy jednak podkreślić, że:

Kortykosteroidy

Stosowanie kortykosteroidów w leczeniu mononukleozy zakaźnej jest kontrowersyjne i nie zaleca się ich rutynowego stosowania. Mogą być one jednak rozważane w określonych sytuacjach klinicznych:123

Po uzyskaniu poprawy klinicznej zaleca się stopniowe zmniejszanie dawki kortykosteroidów (np. przez 7-14 dni).1

Leki przeciwwirusowe

Leki przeciwwirusowe, takie jak acyklowir, walacyklowir czy gancyklowir, nie są zalecane w rutynowym leczeniu mononukleozy zakaźnej. Badania kliniczne wykazały, że chociaż acyklowir może przejściowo hamować wydzielanie wirusa EBV, nie wpływa on istotnie na przebieg kliniczny choroby.12

Przeglądy systematyczne i metaanalizy nie wykazały korzyści klinicznych ze stosowania acyklowiru w porównaniu z placebo, dlatego obecnie nie zaleca się stosowania leków przeciwwirusowych w niepowikłanej mononukleozie zakaźnej.12

Zalecenia dietetyczne

W trakcie choroby można zastosować następujące zalecenia dietetyczne:

  • Spożywanie dużej ilości płynów, takich jak woda, herbaty ziołowe, czyste zupy1
  • Dbanie o odpowiednią wartość odżywczą posiłków, bogatych w owoce i warzywa1
  • W przypadku bólu gardła można spożywać miękkie pokarmy, zimne napoje lub mrożone desery1
  • Unikanie alkoholu przez cały okres choroby, ze względu na możliwe uszkodzenie wątroby12

Postępowanie w powikłaniach

W przypadku wystąpienia powikłań mononukleozy zakaźnej może być konieczne wdrożenie dodatkowego leczenia:1

  • Pęknięcie śledziony – najgroźniejsze powikłanie wymagające natychmiastowej interwencji chirurgicznej1
  • Zapalenie wątroby – monitorowanie funkcji wątroby, unikanie hepatotoksycznych leków i alkoholu1
  • Niedokrwistość hemolityczna – może wymagać zastosowania kortykosteroidów1
  • Małopłytkowość – w ciężkich przypadkach stosowanie kortykosteroidów1
  • Powikłania neurologiczne – leczenie zależne od rodzaju powikłania1

Czas trwania objawów i zdrowienia

Przebieg mononukleozy zakaźnej i czas zdrowienia są różne u poszczególnych pacjentów:

  • Większość objawów zwykle ustępuje w ciągu 2-4 tygodni12
  • Uczucie zmęczenia może utrzymywać się przez kilka tygodni lub nawet miesięcy po ustąpieniu innych objawów12
  • Całkowity powrót do zdrowia może trwać 2-3 miesiące1
  • U sportowców powrót do poprzedniej sprawności fizycznej może wymagać 3-6 miesięcy1

Przewlekłe zakażenie EBV

W rzadkich przypadkach może dojść do rozwoju przewlekłego aktywnego zakażenia wirusem Epsteina-Barr (CAEBV – Chronic Active Epstein-Barr Virus). Stan ten charakteryzuje się utrzymywaniem się i progresją objawów mononukleozy przez dłuższy okres. Leczenie przewlekłego zakażenia EBV jest trudne i może obejmować:123

  • Leki immunosupresyjne (kortykosteroidy, cyklosporyna) – mogą być stosowane do czasowego łagodzenia objawów1
  • Leki przeciwwirusowe (acyklowir, walacyklowir) – mogą przynieść poprawę u niektórych pacjentów z przewlekłym zakażeniem EBV1
  • W ciężkich przypadkach przeszczep komórek macierzystych – najbardziej skuteczna metoda leczenia CAEBV12

Zalecenia dla pacjenta

Pacjentom z mononukleozą zakaźną należy przekazać następujące zalecenia:12

  • Zapewnienie sobie odpowiedniego odpoczynku, szczególnie w początkowym okresie choroby1
  • Regularne nawadnianie organizmu1
  • Stosowanie leków przeciwbólowych i przeciwgorączkowych zgodnie z zaleceniami1
  • Unikanie intensywnego wysiłku fizycznego i sportów kontaktowych przez okres zalecany przez lekarza (minimum 3-4 tygodnie)1
  • Unikanie spożywania alkoholu w trakcie choroby1
  • Regularne kontrole lekarskie, szczególnie w przypadku utrzymywania się objawów1
  • Natychmiastowy kontakt z lekarzem w przypadku wystąpienia silnego bólu w lewym górnym kwadrancie brzucha, co może wskazywać na problemy ze śledzioną1

Prawidłowe leczenie mononukleozy zakaźnej, oparte na odpoczynku, nawodnieniu i leczeniu objawowym, w połączeniu z unikaniem nadmiernego wysiłku fizycznego, pozwala na całkowity powrót do zdrowia u zdecydowanej większości pacjentów bez długotrwałych następstw.12

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 11.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Mononucleosis – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mononucleosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350333
    There’s no specific therapy available to treat infectious mononucleosis. Antibiotics don’t work against viral infections such as mono. Treatment mainly involves taking care of yourself, such as getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids. You may take over-the-counter pain relievers to treat a fever or sore throat. […] A streptococcal (strep) infection sometimes goes along with the sore throat of mononucleosis. You may also develop a sinus infection or an infection of your tonsils (tonsillitis). If so, you may need treatment with antibiotics for these accompanying bacterial infections. […] Severe narrowing of your airway may be treated with corticosteroids. […] Amoxicillin and other antibiotics, including those made from penicillin, aren’t recommended for people with mononucleosis. In fact, some people with mononucleosis who take one of these drugs may develop a rash. The rash doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re allergic to the antibiotic, however. If needed, other antibiotics that are less likely to cause a rash are available to treat infections that may go along with mononucleosis.
  • #1 Mononucleosis (Mono or the Kissing Disease)
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13974-mononucleosis
    There isnt a cure for mono. Antibiotics and antiviral medications that kill other viruses dont work against mono. Instead, mononucleosis treatments focus on helping you feel better by relieving symptoms. Your self-care might include: […] Rest: Mono makes you very tired. Sleep helps your body fight infection. […] Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. […] Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ease fever, inflammation, headaches and muscle aches. These drugs include ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Acetaminophen (Tylenol) also works. […] Sore throat soothers: You can gargle with salt water and use throat lozenges. […] Avoid sports: Physical activity can put too much pressure on an enlarged spleen, increasing the risk of rupture. You should avoid contact sports and strenuous exercise while youre sick and for up to four weeks afterward.
  • #1 About Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) | EBV and Mono | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/epstein-barr/about/index.html
    Most people get better in 2 to 4 weeks. There is no specific treatment for EBV. However, some things can be done to help relieve symptoms such as: […] Drinking fluids to stay hydrated […] Getting plenty of rest […] Taking over-the-counter medications for pain and fever.
  • #1 Treatment for mononucleosis in adults and children
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/treatment-for-mononucleosis
    There is no cure for mononucleosis, so treatment focuses on reducing symptoms until a person recovers. Treatments may include rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter pain medications. […] Treating mono primarily focuses on managing symptoms and allowing the body’s immune system to respond to the infection. Some strategies that may help with this include: […] Rest: Fatigue is a common symptom of mono. People can take time off from work or school to allow their bodies to recover. They also need to avoid physical exertion until they feel better. […] Hydration: People can drink fluids, such as water and soups, to stay hydrated. […] Pain relievers: Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), may help reduce fever, headache, and body aches.
  • #1 Mononucleosis (Mono): Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
    https://www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/en/health-hub/health-resource/diseases-and-conditions/mononucleosis
    How is mononucleosis treated? There are no medications that can treat mononucleosis because antibiotics and antiviral drugs are not effective against the virus. If you are diagnosed with mononucleosis, here are some suggestions for how to deal with it: […] Get lots of rest, preferably bed rest, especially the first week or two. […] Drink plenty of water and other fluids. […] Take nonprescription pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (or acetaminophen, if you cannot take ibuprofen) to help relieve the fever and muscle aches that are common symptoms. […] To help soothe a painful sore throat, use throat lozenges, drink cold beverages or eat frozen desserts, such as popsicles. […] Gargle with salt water several times a day if your throat feels sore. Prepare the salt water solution by dissolving about one-half teaspoon of salt in one cup (8 ounces) of warm water. […] Avoid any strenuous physical activity, such as exercise, heavy lifting, or contact sports, for at least 4 to 6 weeks after being diagnosed with mononucleosis. This is to prevent rupture of the spleen, which is fragile during mononucleosis.
  • #1 About Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono) | EBV and Mono | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/epstein-barr/about/mononucleosis.html
    Most people get better in 2 to 4 weeks. You can help relieve symptoms of infectious mononucleosis by: […] If you have infectious mononucleosis, you should not take penicillin antibiotics like ampicillin or amoxicillin. Based on the severity of the symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend treatment of specific organ systems affected by infectious mononucleosis. […] Because your spleen may become enlarged as a result of infectious mononucleosis, you should avoid contact sports until you fully recover. Participating in contact sports can be strenuous and may cause the spleen to rupture.
  • #1
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tw12342
    Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take. […] Get plenty of rest. Stay in bed as much as you can until you feel well enough to be up. […] Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. […] Do not play contact sports for 4 weeks. Do not lift anything heavy. Too much activity increases the chance that your spleen may break open (rupture). […] Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you do not get better as expected.
  • #1 Recovering From Mono: What Doctors Want You to Know
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/mononucleosis/recovery/
    After the first week, Dr. Balfour recommends gradually becoming more active. […] The trick is taking it easier than you typically would. […] Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and to help relieve a fever and sore throat. […] Doctors recommend drinking at least 12 to 16 cups of fluids (which should include water as well as broth, soup, herbal tea, and other soothing liquids), says Ramilo. […] Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), can help with pain or fever you experience because of mono. […] Mono symptoms will likely clear up in a month or less. But your body is still recovering for another month or two after that, so its important to take it easy. […] Even after symptoms go away, it may take a few additional weeks for the swelling in your spleen to go down, so youre still at higher risk of rupturing it than usual.
  • #1 Recovering From Mono: What Doctors Want You to Know
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/mononucleosis/recovery/
    If you have a job that doesnt require strenuous physical activity or manual labor, its up to you to decide whether or not to work and how much you can handle while recuperating, says Eric Johannsen, MD, an associate professor of infectious disease in the department of medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison, who researches EBV. […] We typically leave it to the individual and how he or she feels. […] I recommend that waiting until acute symptoms have resolved and fatigue is decreasing, which is usually at least a month, Balfour says about returning to typical activity for someone who is physically active. […] Doctors typically caution mono patients not to engage in any contact sports for up to four weeks after symptoms go away to reduce their risk of rupture of the spleen, but for a noncontact sport (like running) someone can typically return to training after taking it easy for about three weeks, Johannsen says. […] Most people with normal immune systems usually recover completely from mono without any lingering effects, says Johannsen.
  • #1 Diagnosing and Treating Mononucleosis
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/diagnosing-and-treating-mononucleosis
    Supportive care is the primary requirement for EBV infection and individuals with IM. Acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended for the treatment of fever, throat discomfort, and malaise. Consumption of adequate fluids and nutrition is also important, as is adequate rest, although complete bed rest is unnecessary. […] The use of corticosteroids in the treatment of EBV-induced IM has been controversial. Many do not recommend corticosteroid therapy for routine cases of IM since it is generally a self-limited illness, and there are theoretical concerns about immunosuppression during clinical illness with a virus that has been causally linked to a variety of malignancies. However, corticosteroids may be considered in the management of patients with some EBV-associated complications.
  • #1 Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono) in Teens and Young Adults | Cedars-Sinai
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions—pediatrics/i/infectious-mononucleosis-mono-in-teens-and-young-adults.html
    Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how bad the condition is. […] Prescription medicines are rarely needed in the treatment of mono. In most cases of mono, care to ease symptoms is all that is needed. […] To ease symptoms, help your child: Get lots of rest, Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, Take over-the-counter medicine for fever and discomfort. […] Antibiotics will not help your child’s mono get better. […] In more severe cases, swelling of the throat and tonsils may make breathing hard. If breathing becomes difficult, your child should be seen right away in an emergency department. Your child will often be seen by an ear, nose, and throat healthcare provider (otolaryngologist). Corticosteroids will often be used to reduce the swelling. […] Corticosteroids may also be prescribed if the fever and fatigue are severe or last a long time, to reduce inflammation and ease the symptoms. […] Corticosteroids may be prescribed for certain complications of mono.
  • #1 Management Options for Infectious Mononucleosis
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/management-options-for-infectious-mononucleosis
    Currently, corticosteroids are only recommended for life-threatening complications of IM such as acute upper airway obstruction, severe thrombocytopenia, and severe hemolytic anemia. […] Nonpharmacologic treatment is an essential part of managing IM. The mainstay of therapy includes restriction of activity. Adequate rest is important, but bed rest is not required.
  • #1 Infectious mononucleosis, Epstein Barr virus, glandular fever
    https://dermnetnz.org/topics/infectious-mononucleosis
    What is the treatment for infectious mononucleosis? Treatment options for infectious mononucleosis are typically supportive in nature, such as: Bed rest Adequate hydration Analgesics such as paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) Intravenous corticosteroids for airway obstruction, thrombocytopenia, or haemolytic anaemia. […] Less common treatment options include: Antiviral drugs, such as aciclovir or valaciclovir, are not used or useful for uncomplicated cases of infectious mononucleosis. They are sometimes prescribed for EBV meningitis, peripheral neuritis, hepatitis, or for haematological complications. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat confirmed secondary bacterial infection.
  • #1 Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono) Medication
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/222040-medication
    No effective antiviral therapy is available for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infectious mononucleosis in immunocompetent persons. Acyclovir and ganciclovir may reduce EBV shedding, but are ineffective clinically. […] Treatment of immunocompromised patients with EBV lymphoproliferative disease is controversial. Acyclovir has not been proven to be beneficial. […] Short courses of corticosteroids are indicated for EBV infectious mononucleosis with hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, CNS involvement, or extreme tonsillar enlargement, but are not indicated for uncomplicated EBV infectious mononucleosis. Corticosteroids should be considered in those with impending airway obstruction. […] Patients with EBV infectious mononucleosis who have positive throat cultures for group A streptococci should not be treated because this represents colonization rather than infection. […] Treatment of group A streptococcal oropharyngeal colonization in patients with EBV infectious mononucleosis may result in a maculopapular rash.
  • #1 Diagnosing and Treating Mononucleosis
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/diagnosing-and-treating-mononucleosis
    Corticosteroids, as well as consultation with an airway specialist, are warranted in individuals with difficulty breathing or dyspnea in the recumbent position. Data on dosing and duration of corticosteroid therapy in patients with IM is very limited. Once clinical improvement has been achieved, tapering the corticosteroid dose slowly (e.g., over 7 to 14 days) is recommended. […] Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that inhibits permissive EBV infection through inhibition of EBV DNA polymerase, but has no effect on latent infection or power to cure the infection. Specific therapy of acute EBV infections with intravenous and oral formulations of acyclovir has been studied, but a significant clinical benefit has not been shown. However, there are recent reports that valcyclovir reduces the frequency of EBV-infected B-cells when given over a long period.
  • #1 Management Options for Infectious Mononucleosis
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/management-options-for-infectious-mononucleosis
    Pharmacologic therapy generally consists of supportive care with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen. […] Recommended therapy for management of IM has not changed much over the years. Pharmacologic options remain limited and mostly include symptomatic treatment or supportive care. Fever, myalgias, and throat discomfort can be treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen. […] Acyclovir is an antiviral medication that inhibits DNA polymerase of EBV. Acyclovir’s effects on IM have been studied in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials and have demonstrated a suppression in the shedding of EBV in the saliva of infected patients, but EBV replication resumed after treatment was discontinued. […] The use of acyclovir, however, provided no significant reductions on individual clinical symptoms of duration of fever, lymphadenopathy, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, weight loss, or tonsillar swelling.
  • #1 Management Options for Infectious Mononucleosis
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/management-options-for-infectious-mononucleosis
    A meta-analysis of controlled trials assessing acyclovir’s role in the treatment of IM failed to show a clinical benefit when compared to placebo and stated that clinical data do not support the use of acyclovir for IM. […] Corticosteroids have also traditionally been used for IM to prevent airway obstruction and lessen pharyngeal inflammation. […] The role of corticosteroids in the symptomatic treatment of IM was assessed by treating with prednisone 60 mg daily tapered over 10 days. Results showed that fever and lymphadenopathy resolved slightly faster with corticosteroids compared to placebo, but clinical significance was questioned. […] A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the efficacy of corticosteroids in IM and included four trials utilizing only corticosteroids and three trials using corticosteroids plus acyclovir. This meta-analysis concluded that no benefit was seen in 8 of 10 health assessment measures.
  • #1 Mononucleosis: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
    https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/mononucleosis-causes-symptoms-and-treatment?srsltid=AfmBOopheFXv6uHy1f4Kx8URVwGlH1geABIKxRYEKpJn3S04IBGn9B6-
    Once the diagnosis of mononucleosis is confirmed, the doctor recommends the pertinent treatment approach based on the severity of symptoms in the patient. […] No particular prescription medicines are available to combat mononucleosis infection and antibiotics are not effective as mono is a viral ailment. Analgesics are given to help the patient deal with body pain, muscle aches, while prescription steroid drugs are given for severe inflammation of the tonsils triggering blockages in the airways. […] The healthcare provider advises the patient to take rest at home, drink plenty of water and eat a healthy balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables encompassing all essential nutrients of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals. To ease itchiness and irritation of sore throat, gargling with salt water at least 4 5 times a day is advised. These healthy lifestyle remedies aid in thwarting viral infection from the body and alleviates discomforting symptoms of mononucleosis in the patient.
  • #1 Mononucleosis (Kissing Disease): Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-mononucleosis-causes
    It’s also important to avoid alcohol when you have mono. Mono can affect your liver, and drinking alcohol on top of it could lead to liver damage. […] Mononucleosis, also called the kissing disease, is a contagious disease most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Its usually not serious but can take some time to recover. While there’s no cure, lots of rest, plenty of liquids, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help you feel better.
  • #1 Mono Symptoms, Causes, Natural Treatments for Mononucleosis – Dr. Axe
    https://draxe.com/health/mono-symptoms/
    Most people have uncomplicated mono that goes away on its own within a few weeks. However, some develop complications, including upper airway obstruction, chronic fatigue syndrome, neurologic disease, severe hematologic cytopenias (a reduction in the number of blood cells), hepatitis and rupture of the spleen. […] There is no specific treatment for the virus that commonly causes mono. Some people turn to pain medications to relieve mono symptoms. Because the illness is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not effective. […] Some doctors may recommend antiviral agents, such as acyclovir and valacyclovir, for the treatment of mono symptoms, especially in cases of severe infectious mononucleosis. Approach these types of treatments with caution because of the potential risk for drug toxicity. […] There is no treatment for EBV, but home remedies can help ease the discomfort of mono. These include antiviral herbs, essential oils, plenty of fluids, rest and a healthy diet.
  • #1 Treatment – Primary Care Notebook
    https://primarycarenotebook.com/pages/infectious-disease/infectious-mononucleosis/treatment
    there is no specific treatment available for glandular fever. The reason why some children remain unwell for many weeks, or sometimes many months, is unclear. […] the mainstay of treatment for infectious mononucleosis includes good supportive care, adequate hydration, for fever and myalgias: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs), paracetamol / acetaminophen, to relieve throat discomfort throat lozenges, sprays, gargling with a 2% lidocaine (Xylocaine) solution. […] Antiviral treatments appear to provide minimal benefit in the management of IM. […] Surgery is usually advocated for spontaneous splenic rupture.
  • #1 Infectious Mononucleosis: Rapid Evidence Review | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2023/0100/infectious-mononucleosis.html
    Treatment of infectious mononucleosis is supportive; routine use of antivirals and corticosteroids is not recommended. […] Current guidelines recommend that patients with infectious mononucleosis not participate in athletic activity for three weeks from onset of symptoms. […] Corticosteroids and antivirals should not be used for uncomplicated infectious mononucleosis. […] A Cochrane review found insufficient evidence to support the use of corticosteroids in patients with uncomplicated infectious mononucleosis. […] Another Cochrane review showed insufficient evidence to recommend routine use of antivirals in patients with uncomplicated infectious mononucleosis. […] Exercise is contraindicated because any exertion may cause splenic rupture. Current guidelines recommend three weeks of exercise restriction. […] Judicious use of acetaminophen should be considered for symptomatic relief of fever and pharyngitis. Patients should avoid excessive use of alcohol, acetaminophen, and other hepatotoxic medications. Aspirin should be avoided in children and adolescents.
  • #1 Treatment options for Epstein-Barr virus-related disorders | IDR
    https://www.dovepress.com/treatment-options-for-epstein-barr-virus-related-disorders-of-the-cent-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-IDR
    We are not aware of any study using intravenous acyclovir as for herpes encephalitis. […] The first clinical trial of an EBV vaccine was reported in 1995. […] The vaccination prevented the occurrence of IM with mean efficacy rate 78%. […] Current treatment of PCNSL associated with latency III does not include antiviral drugs, but consists of conventional lymphoma therapy with chemotherapy and consolidation with whole-brain radiotherapy or high-dose chemotherapy supported by autologous stem cell transplantation. […] According to contemporary opinion on the involvement of EBV in MS pathogenesis, prophylaxis against MS will partly be identical to prophylaxis against the IM and the caveats discussed above. […] The prospect of possible antiviral therapy is interesting. […] However, neither available anti-viral drugs nor neutralizing antibodies against glycoproteins can induce clearance of latently EBV infected memory B cells, whereas T cell immunity is essential for controlling the infection in latency.
  • #1 Recovering From Mono: What Doctors Want You to Know
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/mononucleosis/recovery/
    If you or someone you love has been sidelined by mononucleosis, aka mono, getting lots of rest and taking good care of yourself will be key to feeling better and recovering sooner. […] Resting and getting plenty of fluids is therefore what doctors prescribe to allow your body what it needs to heal itself. […] This prescription can be a tough one to follow if youre used to being active. But getting extra rest is key to recovering when youre hit with mono, says Hank Balfour, MD, professor of laboratory medicine and pathology as well as pediatrics at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis. […] He recommends getting at least the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night that everyone should be getting (and more if you feel like you can) for at least the first week youre experiencing symptoms.
  • #1 How Long Does It Take To Heal From Mononucleosis? Symptoms
    https://www.medicinenet.com/how_long_does_it_take_to_heal_from_mononucleosis/article.htm
    It takes two to three months to completely recover from mononucleosis. […] Most people infected with mononucleosis may start to feel better within two to four weeks, but fatigue may last longer. […] Make sure the patient gets proper rest for fast healing. […] It is better to wait for two-three months before attempting vigorous physical activities such as heavy lifting, roughhousing, and contact sports. […] There isn’t a vaccine or cure for mononucleosis. Antibiotics or antiviral medicines may not work against mononucleosis. Management of mononucleosis includes: […] Getting adequate rest to fight infection […] Drink plenty of fluids for hydration […] Pain killers may be recommended for fever, inflammation, headaches, and muscle aches. Some of the common painkillers include Aleve (naproxen), Tylenol (acetaminophen), and Advil (ibuprofen). […] Gargle with saltwater and use throat lozenges for calming a sore throat […] Avoid contact sports and strenuous exercise to prevent the risk of spleen rupture.
  • #1 Infectious mononucleosis – Knowledge @ AMBOSS
    https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/infectious-mononucleosis/
    Treat infectious mononucleosis based on the underlying cause: EBV: supportive treatment only. […] CMV: Consider adding antiviral therapy. […] Educate patients on: How to prevent infectious mononucleosis transmission, Symptoms of serious complications of infectious mononucleosis, Limiting the following physical activities to reduce fatigue and the risk of splenic rupture. […] Strenuous activity for at least 21 days. […] Contact sports (e.g., football, wrestling) for at least 4 weeks. […] Avoiding hepatotoxic substances, e.g., alcohol. […] Manage patient expectations: Fatigue is common and can last 6 months. […] Athletes may require 3-6 months to return to prior fitness levels. […] Short courses of corticosteroids, e.g., prednisone (off-label), can be used in complicated cases.
  • #1 Optimal Treatment for Chronic Active Epstein-Barr Virus Disease
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2776035/
    Numerous agents have been tried for the treatment of CAEBV. While anecdotal reports suggested that antiviral therapy (e.g. acyclovir, ganciclovir, vidarabine) might be effective in some cases of CAEBV, antiviral therapy is generally ineffective for this disease. […] Immunosuppressive agents, such as corticosteroids and cyclosporine, are often used to temporarily reduce symptoms in patients with CAEBV. These agents have been successful for treating hemophagocytic syndrome which is a frequent complication of CAEBV. However, the underlying disease must also be treated and these agents have not been successful in curing patients with CAEBV. […] Immunomodulatory therapy has also been tried for the treatment of CAEBV. IFN- and IFN- have been reported to induce remissions in some patients with CAEBV; however, long term follow-ups have not been reported.
  • #1 Mono (Mononucleosis) Diagnosis and Treatment
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/mononucleosis/diagnosis-treatment/
    If the tonsils and lymph nodes in the neck become swollen to the point that they cause breathing problems or difficulty swallowing, your doctor may prescribe a short course of steroids. This is a treatment that doctors turn to only when absolutely necessary since research has shown that steroids may delay recovery from EBV. […] In some rare cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral drugs, especially for patients who develop chronic mono, or chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection, which is when the EBV infection causes mono symptoms that persist and progress longer than is typical; or for patients who experience other complications after a mono infection (also a rare occurrence). Antiviral drugs like acyclovir (Zovirax) and valacyclovir (Valtrex) have been shown to improve symptoms of chronic mono in some patients. […] Still, for most patients, the most important part of recovering from mono is resting and giving yourself time off before returning to normal activities.
  • #1 Epstein-Barr Virus Treatment
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/epstein-barr-virus-treatment-5138133
    Currently, there are no treatments that can kill the Epstein-Barr virus. Treatment for mono focuses on relieving symptoms and healing your immune system naturally. […] When you’re sick with infectious mononucleosis or EBV infection, your healthcare provider will likely recommend you stay home, get a lot of rest, and drink plenty of clear fluids. […] Instead of prescribing anything, your healthcare provider will probably recommend you rely on over-the-counter medications to control fever, aches, sore throat, and pain. […] These medications will not cure or kill the virus; they only help relieve the symptoms. […] Because infectious mononucleosis is caused by a virus and not bacteria, antibiotics will not help unless you have a secondary, bacterial infection. […] While symptoms of the Epstein-Barr virus can be treated, the disease’s root causethe viruscannot. […] When a patient has CAEBV, the only real treatment is a stem cell transplant to repair the immune system, helping the body fight off the virus. […] The best treatment can do is ease symptoms and the conditions caused by the infection.
  • #1 Patient education: Infectious mononucleosis (mono) in adults and adolescents (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/infectious-mononucleosis-mono-in-adults-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics/print
    Rest—Mono can cause severe fatigue, although most people recover within two to four weeks. For some, significant tiredness lasts for weeks to months. Early in the infection, it is important to get adequate rest, although complete bed rest is unnecessary. […] Diet—Feeling ill often causes a loss of appetite. This is normal and usually improves as the infection resolves. It is essential, even if you have no appetite, to drink an adequate amount of fluids. This is especially true if you take ibuprofen for pain or fever because ibuprofen can affect kidney function if you become dehydrated. You are drinking adequate fluids if your urine is a pale yellow color. […] People with mono who develop an enlarged spleen are at risk of splenic rupture until the spleen returns to normal size. This can take a few weeks or longer. Although you can return to school or work when you are feeling better, it’s important to avoid activities that can cause injury to the spleen.
  • #1 Infectious Mononucleosis | Mono | Mono Symptoms | MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/infectiousmononucleosis.html
    What are the treatments for infectious mononucleosis (mono)? […] Drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. […] Getting lots of rest. […] Taking over-the-counter medications for pain and fever. But don’t give aspirin to children or teens because it may cause Reye syndrome. This syndrome is a rare, serious illness that can affect the brain and liver. […] If you have severe symptoms, your provider may suggest additional treatment based on which organs in your body are affected by the mono. […] Antibiotics don’t treat viral infections, so they do not help with mono. Some people do get bacterial infections such as strep throat along with mono. In that case, you probably need antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection. But you should not take penicillin antibiotics like ampicillin or amoxicillin. Those antibiotics can cause a rash in people who have mono. […] Mono can cause an enlarged spleen, which could rupture and cause a medical emergency. To try to protect the spleen, providers recommend avoiding intense exercise and contact sports until you fully recover (about a month).
  • #1 Mononucleosis – What You Need to Know
    https://www.drugs.com/cg/mononucleosis.html
    Your symptoms may last for 4 weeks or longer. You may need any of the following: […] Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor’s order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly. […] NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor’s order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. […] Steroids help decrease inflammation. […] Antibiotics may be needed if you also have a bacterial infection. […] The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition. […] Acyclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus.
  • #1 Mononucleosis – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mononucleosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350328
    If you have mononucleosis, it’s important to be careful of certain complications such as an enlarged spleen. Rest and enough fluids are keys to recovery. […] If your symptoms don’t get better on their own in a week or two, see your doctor. […] Although the symptoms of mononucleosis are uncomfortable, the infection resolves on its own without long-term effects. Most adults have been exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus and have built up antibodies. This means they’re immune and won’t get mononucleosis.
  • #1 Mono | Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/m/mono
    Your child may feel better in two to four weeks, but recovery can take up to three months. […] Do not give your child amoxicillin or amoxicillin clavulanate (Augmentin) during their illness. It could cause a drug rash. […] If your child has a fever, make sure they drink an extra 10 to 12 cups (2 1/2 to 3 quarts) of liquid each day while their temperature is above normal. […] Your child should be on bed rest when their temperature is above normal. Limit your child’s activity so that they don’t get exhausted. […] Do not let your teenager drink alcohol. Alcohol makes the liver work harder. […] Have your child avoid heavy lifting, contact sports and vigorous activity for four to six weeks after recovery. This will prevent injury to the spleen. The spleen may become enlarged, and injuries may cause severe bleeding. […] Immediately report any pain in the upper-left area of your child’s abdomen or in their shoulder to the doctor.
  • #2 Mononucleosis (Mono or the Kissing Disease)
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13974-mononucleosis
    There isnt a cure for mono. Antibiotics and antiviral medications that kill other viruses dont work against mono. Instead, mononucleosis treatments focus on helping you feel better by relieving symptoms. Your self-care might include: […] Rest: Mono makes you very tired. Sleep helps your body fight infection. […] Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. […] Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ease fever, inflammation, headaches and muscle aches. These drugs include ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Acetaminophen (Tylenol) also works. […] Sore throat soothers: You can gargle with salt water and use throat lozenges. […] Avoid sports: Physical activity can put too much pressure on an enlarged spleen, increasing the risk of rupture. You should avoid contact sports and strenuous exercise while youre sick and for up to four weeks afterward.
  • #2 Patient education: Infectious mononucleosis (mono) in adults and adolescents (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/infectious-mononucleosis-mono-in-adults-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics/print
    Rest—Mono can cause severe fatigue, although most people recover within two to four weeks. For some, significant tiredness lasts for weeks to months. Early in the infection, it is important to get adequate rest, although complete bed rest is unnecessary. […] Diet—Feeling ill often causes a loss of appetite. This is normal and usually improves as the infection resolves. It is essential, even if you have no appetite, to drink an adequate amount of fluids. This is especially true if you take ibuprofen for pain or fever because ibuprofen can affect kidney function if you become dehydrated. You are drinking adequate fluids if your urine is a pale yellow color. […] People with mono who develop an enlarged spleen are at risk of splenic rupture until the spleen returns to normal size. This can take a few weeks or longer. Although you can return to school or work when you are feeling better, it’s important to avoid activities that can cause injury to the spleen.
  • #2 Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23469-epstein-barr-virus
    Treatment for Epstein-Barr virus addresses symptoms associated with the infection. Treatment includes: Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids. Resting. Taking over-the-counter medicine for a fever and pain. […] People infected with Epstein-Barr virus who experience symptoms usually feel better after two to four weeks. Others might have lingering symptoms of fatigue where they feel very tired for several weeks or months after their initial infection. […] There is no cure for Epstein-Barr virus. Treatment addresses the symptoms of the virus and symptoms should go away after two to four weeks. […] If you experience symptoms of Epstein-Barr virus, contact your healthcare provider. Treatment for the virus includes resting and taking over-the-counter medicine to alleviate pain and discomfort. If you experience severe pain or have a fever for several days, visit your provider immediately.
  • #2 Management Options for Infectious Mononucleosis
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/management-options-for-infectious-mononucleosis
    Pharmacologic therapy generally consists of supportive care with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen. […] Recommended therapy for management of IM has not changed much over the years. Pharmacologic options remain limited and mostly include symptomatic treatment or supportive care. Fever, myalgias, and throat discomfort can be treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen. […] Acyclovir is an antiviral medication that inhibits DNA polymerase of EBV. Acyclovir’s effects on IM have been studied in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials and have demonstrated a suppression in the shedding of EBV in the saliva of infected patients, but EBV replication resumed after treatment was discontinued. […] The use of acyclovir, however, provided no significant reductions on individual clinical symptoms of duration of fever, lymphadenopathy, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, weight loss, or tonsillar swelling.
  • #2 Mononucleosis – How to treat mono | familydoctor.org
    https://familydoctor.org/condition/mononucleosis/
    How to treat mono […] There isn’t a cure for mono. The virus will go away on its own. Symptoms usually last about 4 weeks. The main goal of treatment is to relieve your symptoms. Here are some steps you can take to feel better: […] Rest. Sleep helps your body fight infection. […] Drink plenty of fluids. They help prevent dehydration. […] Soothe a sore throat. Gargle with saltwater or suck on throat lozenges, hard candy, or flavored frozen desserts (such as Popsicles). […] Relieve the pain. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to relieve pain and fever. Do not give aspirin to children. Aspirin has been associated with a rare disease in children called Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s syndrome is a serious illness that can lead to death. […] […] […] Do I need an antibiotic?
  • #2 Patient education: Infectious mononucleosis (mono) in adults and adolescents (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/infectious-mononucleosis-mono-in-adults-and-adolescents-beyond-the-basics/print
    Experts recommend that athletes avoid contact or vigorous sport activities for at least the first three to four weeks of the illness. Your healthcare provider should determine when it is safe for you to participate in strenuous activities or contact sports. […] When you begin participating in sports activities again, we recommend starting slowly and gradually increasing your activity. Even highly trained athletes may not feel as fit after mono as before the illness.
  • #2 Mononucleosis (Infectious): Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment | Nationwide Children’s Hospital
    https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/mononucleosis
    Nationwide Children’s Hospital offers a team of experts focused on the treatment of children with mononucleosis. […] Because a virus causes mono, antibiotics (such as penicillin) will not help unless the child has another infection caused by bacteria. Mono symptoms usually go away on their own after a few weeks. The best treatment is getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of liquids and eating healthy. […] You may give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) for sore throat, muscle aches or fever. Do not give aspirin. Giving aspirin can lead to Reye syndrome, a very serious illness. […] If tonsils or lymph nodes in the neck are very enlarged and cause trouble breathing, the doctor may prescribe a steroid medicine. […] People who have mono should not do contact sports or vigorous exercise until the doctor says it is okay. Even playful wrestling at home could harm the enlarged spleen. […] Avoid heavy lifting, rough or active play for one month after recovery.
  • #2 Recovering From Mono: What Doctors Want You to Know
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/mononucleosis/recovery/
    If your doctor has examined you and you dont have an enlarged spleen, do what you can tolerate, says Balfour. […] Balfour recommends eating a diet focus on anti-inflammatory foods, which means you should be eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and avoiding sugar, dairy, and processed foods. […] Recovering from mono takes time and rest. […] If you try to resume your normal activities too soon, you could end up prolonging your illness and hindering your recovery process. […] At any point, whether you are still experiencing mono symptoms or not, see your doctor or go to the emergency room (ER) immediately if you experience any sudden or sharp pains in the left side of your upper abdomen (which could be a sign that your spleen may be ruptured), if you start having difficulty breathing, or if you are urinating much less than normal (indicating that youre dehydrated).
  • #2 Infectious Mononucleosis | Mono | Mono Symptoms | MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/infectiousmononucleosis.html
    What are the treatments for infectious mononucleosis (mono)? […] Drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. […] Getting lots of rest. […] Taking over-the-counter medications for pain and fever. But don’t give aspirin to children or teens because it may cause Reye syndrome. This syndrome is a rare, serious illness that can affect the brain and liver. […] If you have severe symptoms, your provider may suggest additional treatment based on which organs in your body are affected by the mono. […] Antibiotics don’t treat viral infections, so they do not help with mono. Some people do get bacterial infections such as strep throat along with mono. In that case, you probably need antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection. But you should not take penicillin antibiotics like ampicillin or amoxicillin. Those antibiotics can cause a rash in people who have mono. […] Mono can cause an enlarged spleen, which could rupture and cause a medical emergency. To try to protect the spleen, providers recommend avoiding intense exercise and contact sports until you fully recover (about a month).
  • #2 Diagnosing and Treating Mononucleosis
    https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/diagnosing-and-treating-mononucleosis
    Corticosteroids, as well as consultation with an airway specialist, are warranted in individuals with difficulty breathing or dyspnea in the recumbent position. Data on dosing and duration of corticosteroid therapy in patients with IM is very limited. Once clinical improvement has been achieved, tapering the corticosteroid dose slowly (e.g., over 7 to 14 days) is recommended. […] Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that inhibits permissive EBV infection through inhibition of EBV DNA polymerase, but has no effect on latent infection or power to cure the infection. Specific therapy of acute EBV infections with intravenous and oral formulations of acyclovir has been studied, but a significant clinical benefit has not been shown. However, there are recent reports that valcyclovir reduces the frequency of EBV-infected B-cells when given over a long period.
  • #2 Mononucleosis (Mono): Diagnosis & Treatment | NewYork-Presbyterian
    https://www.nyp.org/primary-care/mononucleosis-mono/treatment
    There is no cure for mono. The best mono treatment is getting lots of rest and drinking plenty of fluids. You may also choose to take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve aches and fever. […] If your tonsils are so swollen that you are having trouble breathing, your doctor may prescribe a steroid medication to reduce the inflammation.
  • #2 Treatment options for Epstein-Barr virus-related disorders | IDR
    https://www.dovepress.com/treatment-options-for-epstein-barr-virus-related-disorders-of-the-cent-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-IDR
    Although IM is usually a self-limiting disease, therapeutic and preventive trials are warranted due to its immediate and late complications: persistent fatigue occurs in 922% of post-IM patients after 6 months; the risk of CNS disorders complicating IM as described in the previous section of this review was reported to be 118%; and beyond the 2- to 3-fold increased risk of MS there is increased risk of other autoimmune disorders. […] Antiviral agents tested against IM were mainly acyclovir and its prodrug valacyclovir. Acyclovir is an acyclic guanosine derivative. […] In spite of the clear rationale, the first trials of acyclovir in IM showed no impact on the clinical course although virus shedding transiently ceased during treatment. […] A Cochrane review of seven randomized controlled studies of acyclovir and its derivatives confirmed that viral shedding was reduced while on antiviral treatment, although this effect was not sustained when the treatment was stopped.
  • #2 Epstein-Barr Virus Infectious Mononucleosis | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2004/1001/p1279.html
    Symptomatic treatment, the mainstay of care, includes adequate hydration, analgesics, antipyretics, and adequate rest. […] Corticosteroids, acyclovir, and antihistamines are not recommended for routine treatment of infectious mononucleosis, although corticosteroids may benefit patients with respiratory compromise or severe pharyngeal edema. […] The mainstay of treatment for infectious mononucleosis is good supportive care, including adequate hydration; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or acetaminophen for fever and myalgias; and throat lozenges or sprays, or gargling with a 2 percent lidocaine (Xylocaine) solution to relieve pharyngeal discomfort. […] A meta-analysis of five randomized controlled trials involving 339 patients found that patients who took acyclovir (Zovirax) had less oropharyngeal shedding at the end of therapy, but this treatment provided no significant or consistent clinical benefit and is therefore not recommended. […] Based on clinical experience and case reports, corticosteroids are recommended in patients with significant pharyngeal edema that causes or threatens respiratory compromise.
  • #2 Mononucleosis | University Health Center | Nebraska
    https://health.unl.edu/mononucleosis/
    Attend classes if you feel able, but plan to rest often. […] To strengthen your immune system and help reduce symptoms, eat antioxidant rich foods like leafy vegetables, peppers, and blueberries, avoid refined foods like sugar and white breads, and blend your foods or eat them with a liquid to soothe a sore throat. […] Non-caffeinated Green tea has beneficial antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. […] Avoid alcoholic beverages and drugs not prescribed by your clinician for at least six weeks, because of possible liver inflammation.
  • #2 Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono): Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/784513-treatment
    There is no cure for mono; the virus resolves on its own. To manage symptoms, the following are recommended: Rest and hydrate. Use saltwater gargles or lozenges for sore throat relief. Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain. […] Avoid physical activities or contact sports for at least 3-4 weeks or until cleared by your doctor. This helps prevent a rare but serious complication: a ruptured spleen. […] Symptoms typically resolve in 2-4 weeks, but fatigue may persist for months in some teens.
  • #2 How Long Does It Take To Heal From Mononucleosis? Symptoms
    https://www.medicinenet.com/how_long_does_it_take_to_heal_from_mononucleosis/article.htm
    It takes two to three months to completely recover from mononucleosis. […] Most people infected with mononucleosis may start to feel better within two to four weeks, but fatigue may last longer. […] Make sure the patient gets proper rest for fast healing. […] It is better to wait for two-three months before attempting vigorous physical activities such as heavy lifting, roughhousing, and contact sports. […] There isn’t a vaccine or cure for mononucleosis. Antibiotics or antiviral medicines may not work against mononucleosis. Management of mononucleosis includes: […] Getting adequate rest to fight infection […] Drink plenty of fluids for hydration […] Pain killers may be recommended for fever, inflammation, headaches, and muscle aches. Some of the common painkillers include Aleve (naproxen), Tylenol (acetaminophen), and Advil (ibuprofen). […] Gargle with saltwater and use throat lozenges for calming a sore throat […] Avoid contact sports and strenuous exercise to prevent the risk of spleen rupture.
  • #2 Optimal Treatment for Chronic Active Epstein-Barr Virus Disease
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2776035/
    Cytotoxic chemotherapy has also been used to treat CAEBV. A variety of agents have been used including cyclophosphamide, anthracyclines, vincristine, etoposide, and prednisone. In most cases, these agents at best result in a temporary effect, but are not curative and the disease continues to progress over time. […] Immune cell therapy has been successfully used in the treatment of EBV lymphoproliferative disease that occurs after solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. […] Infusions of EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes from an HLA-identical sibling into a boy with CAEBV resulted in transient decreases in EBV DNA in the plasma and decreases in serum levels of TNF-; however, the patient died of an infection 4 weeks after the last infusion. […] Matched related myeloablative, matched related nonmyeloablative, matched unrelated myeloablative, and cord blood stem cell transplants have all been reported to be successful in case reports of CAEBV.
  • #2 Mononucleosis (Kissing Disease): Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-mononucleosis-causes
    It’s also important to avoid alcohol when you have mono. Mono can affect your liver, and drinking alcohol on top of it could lead to liver damage. […] Mononucleosis, also called the kissing disease, is a contagious disease most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Its usually not serious but can take some time to recover. While there’s no cure, lots of rest, plenty of liquids, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help you feel better.
  • #3 Diagnosis and treatment of infectious mononucleosis – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8116521/
    Infectious mononucleosis is considered a self-limited illness, but it may result in serious complications involving the pulmonary, ophthalmologic, neurologic and hematologic systems. Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms, unless more severe disease involving other organ systems occurs. […] The most common potentially fatal complication is splenic rupture.
  • #3 Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono) Medication
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/222040-medication
    No effective antiviral therapy is available for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infectious mononucleosis in immunocompetent persons. Acyclovir and ganciclovir may reduce EBV shedding, but are ineffective clinically. […] Treatment of immunocompromised patients with EBV lymphoproliferative disease is controversial. Acyclovir has not been proven to be beneficial. […] Short courses of corticosteroids are indicated for EBV infectious mononucleosis with hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, CNS involvement, or extreme tonsillar enlargement, but are not indicated for uncomplicated EBV infectious mononucleosis. Corticosteroids should be considered in those with impending airway obstruction. […] Patients with EBV infectious mononucleosis who have positive throat cultures for group A streptococci should not be treated because this represents colonization rather than infection. […] Treatment of group A streptococcal oropharyngeal colonization in patients with EBV infectious mononucleosis may result in a maculopapular rash.
  • #3 Mono (Mononucleosis) Diagnosis and Treatment
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/mononucleosis/diagnosis-treatment/
    If the tonsils and lymph nodes in the neck become swollen to the point that they cause breathing problems or difficulty swallowing, your doctor may prescribe a short course of steroids. This is a treatment that doctors turn to only when absolutely necessary since research has shown that steroids may delay recovery from EBV. […] In some rare cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral drugs, especially for patients who develop chronic mono, or chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection, which is when the EBV infection causes mono symptoms that persist and progress longer than is typical; or for patients who experience other complications after a mono infection (also a rare occurrence). Antiviral drugs like acyclovir (Zovirax) and valacyclovir (Valtrex) have been shown to improve symptoms of chronic mono in some patients. […] Still, for most patients, the most important part of recovering from mono is resting and giving yourself time off before returning to normal activities.