From the Research
The primary treatment for mono (infectious mononucleosis) is supportive care, focusing on managing symptoms while the body fights the infection, as there is no specific cure. Rest is essential, often for several weeks, to allow your body to recover and prevent complications like an enlarged spleen. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as needed for fever and pain, following package dosing instructions 1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, and use throat lozenges or warm salt water gargles for sore throat relief.
Key Considerations
- Avoid strenuous activities and contact sports for at least 8 weeks or while splenomegaly is still present to prevent splenic rupture, as recommended by recent guidelines 1.
- Steroids like prednisone may be prescribed in severe cases with significant throat swelling, but aren't routine.
- Antibiotics aren't effective against mono's viral cause (usually Epstein-Barr virus) and should be avoided unless there's a confirmed bacterial co-infection.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Most people recover completely within 2-4 weeks, though fatigue may persist longer. If symptoms worsen, especially with severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, or extreme weakness, seek immediate medical attention. The most recent and highest quality study 1 emphasizes the importance of prompt diagnosis to avoid unnecessary investigations and treatments and to minimize complications.