However, some people get headaches after a spinal tap that can last a few days. The spinal fluid can be tested for cryptococcus in two ways. CRAG tests are quick and can produce same-day results. A culture can take a week or more to show a positive result. Meningitis is treated with anti-fungal drugs.
Some physicians use fluconazole.
It is available in pill form or as an intravenous drug. Fluconazole is fairly effective, and is generally easy to tolerate. Other doctors prefer to use a combination of amphotericin B and flucytosine capsules. Amphotericin B is a very strong drug. It is given as an injection or a slow intravenous infusion.