How To Treat And Prevent Reye's Syndrome

Diuretics

The doctors will also administer diuretics that stop swelling by helping the body get rid of water and salt. They will generally give the diuretics through intravenous injection. Doctors use mannitol to stimulate the production of urine and to reduce swelling within the brain and around the eyes. Mannitol can be taken orally or through an intravenous line. If the doctor is using it to reduce swelling of the brain, they will usually use an intravenous line. The exact dosage depends on the patient’s weight. The initial dose will typically be 0.25 to 1 gram per kilogram, and later doses will often be 0.25 to .5 grams per kilogram. The patient will be given doses of this medication once every four to six hours.

Intravenous Fluids

Doctors will give intravenous fluids to a patient with Reye’s syndrome. They will typically administer a solution containing glucose and electrolytes to correct and stabilize the levels of nutrients and salts in the patient’s blood. Doctors will also administer anticonvulsants and ammonia detoxicants intravenously. The first are medications used to control and prevent seizures, while the second are medications used to reduce the level of ammonia in the patient’s body.

Glycerol can also be administered intravenously. Doctors use it on Reye’s syndrome patients to reduce swelling of the brain. Dexamethasone is a kind of corticosteroid that reduces swelling and inflammation. The dosage of dexamethasone depends on the patient’s weight and the severity of their condition. Doctors will not use high doses of dexamethasone for more than two or three days.