What is the preferred initial treatment for acute pericarditis in a patient diagnosed with myopericarditis?

In the management of acute pericarditis, especially in cases of myopericarditis, the preferred initial treatment is typically aspirin. Aspirin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), provides effective pain relief and reduces inflammation associated with pericarditis. It is particularly valuable because it has anti-inflammatory properties that can directly target the underlying pathophysiology of acute pericarditis.

Myopericarditis refers to inflammation not only of the pericardium but also of the myocardium. The use of aspirin helps alleviate chest pain, one of the hallmark symptoms of this condition. The usual dosage regimen aims to control symptoms promptly and prevent complications.

In addition to aspirin, colchicine can be considered in another context but is often used as an adjunct therapy rather than first-line treatment in acute scenarios. Corticosteroids, while effective for inflammatory conditions, are generally reserved for cases where patients do not respond to NSAIDs or have recurrent symptoms, as they may increase the risk of complications. Intravenous immunoglobulin is not a standard treatment for acute pericarditis and is reserved for specific conditions like certain viral infections or autoimmune disorders. Therefore, aspirin remains the most widely endorsed initial approach for managing