Mononucleosis (Mono)

Usually no treatment for mono is needed other than:

• Getting plenty of rest.
• Gargling with salt water or using throat lozenges to soothe your sore throat.
• Taking acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil) to reduce fever and relieve a sore throat and headaches. Do not give aspirin to anyone under the age of 20, because its use has been linked with Reference Reye syndrome Opens New Window, a serious illness.
• Avoiding contact sports and heavy lifting to reduce the risk of injuring your Reference spleen Opens New Window.

Without other treatment, most people recover from mono after several weeks. But for some, it may take several months before they regain their normal energy levels. This extended period of fatigue is not the same as having Reference chronic fatigue syndrome Opens New Window.

In severe cases, Reference corticosteroids Opens New Window may be used to reduce swelling of the throat, tonsils, or spleen. This type of steroid use may also decrease the overall length and severity of illness from infectious mono.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.