Antibiotics Used for Sinus Infections

There are two main classes of antibiotics prescribed for sinus infections--narrow-spectrum (which only work against certain strains of bacteria but cost much less) and broad-spectrum (which can attack more strains, but can cause antibiotic resistance and are more expensive).

Penicillins

A narrow-spectrum of antibiotic that is usually the first antibiotic administered for a sinus infection (with the exception of people who have penicillin allergies), the most common type of penicillin given to treat sinus infections is amoxicillin.

Cephalosporins

A broad-spectrum antibiotic, it is often used when there is an allergy or sensitivity to penicillin, or penicillin has failed to work.

Macrolides

Another narrow-spectrum of antibiotic which often causes fewer side effects than penicillins are erythromycin and clarithromycin, the most popular types prescribed.

Quinolones and Fluoroquinolones

A type of broad-spectrum antibiotics, they are the newest kind of antibiotics prescribed, and are only prescribed when all other antibiotics have failed, as they can induce serious side effects. Moxifloxacin is the type of fluoroquinolone administered for sinus infections.

Alternative Treatments

Homeopathic medicines, sinus sprays and rinses, acupressure and massage can be alternative treatments for sinus infections. Surgery is generally a last step when antibiotics and all other treatments have failed to work.

Warning

Long-term use of antibiotics can cause many health issues, including digestive disorders, kidney and liver distress, as well as future antibiotic resistance.

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