What are the common medications used to treat acute pericarditis?

Treatment for acute pericarditis aims to alleviate symptoms and address the underlying cause of the inflammation. Common medications used include pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, to help relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, a physician may prescribe other medications, such as colchicine or steroids, or antibiotics if the inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection [4].

Pain Relievers and Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs are the first line of treatment for acute pericarditis. Ibuprofen is typically used to relieve acute pain and reduce inflammation around the heart [4]. It is important to adhere to the dosages prescribed by your doctor, as high doses or prolonged use may carry certain risks. Sitting or leaning forward can help alleviate the pain associated with pericarditis [4].

Colchicine and Steroids

In cases where the patient does not respond to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, or in cases of recurrent pericarditis, the doctor may prescribe colchicine. Colchicine works to reduce inflammation and may help prevent recurrences [4]. As for steroids, such as corticosteroids, they are typically used in cases that do not respond to other treatments or when certain conditions require them, such as some autoimmune diseases or if colchicine is ineffective [4]. Steroids should be used with caution and under close medical supervision due to their potential side effects.

Antibiotics and Targeted Treatments

If acute pericarditis is caused by a bacterial infection, appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed to eliminate the infection [4]. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotic treatment even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or the development of antibiotic resistance. In some rare cases, pericarditis may result from other conditions such as cancer; in these instances, treatment may include procedures to remove excess fluid around the heart or targeted treatments for the underlying cause [1].

When Should You Seek Emergency Medical Help?

Although acute pericarditis is not dangerous in most cases, it is essential to seek urgent medical advice when experiencing chest pain [4]. You must call emergency services immediately if the chest pain is sudden and radiates to the arms, back, neck, or jaw, and is accompanied by a feeling of tightness or heaviness in the chest, shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea, and lasts for more than 15 minutes; these may be signs of a heart attack that requires immediate treatment in a hospital [5]. Do not drive yourself to the hospital in these situations [4].

For more information about this condition, you can visit Acute Pericarditis: Chest Pain That Improves by Leaning Forward and Its Treatment (Arabic).

Medical references

• Pericarditis - NHS
• Heart attack - NHS
• Cardiopulmonary Syndromes (PDQ®)–Patient Version