Medicine choices. Over-the-counter pain relievers, including acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) and ibuprofen (such as Advil), may be used to relieve headaches and a sore throat. Do not give aspirin to anyone under the age of 20, because its use has been linked with Reye syndrome, a serious illness.n severe cases, corticosteroids may be used to reduce swelling of the throat, tonsils, or spleen. Taking antibiotics such as amoxicillin or ampicillin may cause a rash in many people who have mono. A rash caused by antibiotics can often be a first sign that the person has mono.