Understanding Antibiotics for Ear Infections: Types & Treatment

Ear infections are painful, but they are easily treated with antibiotics. Sometimes the wrong antibiotic is prescribed for the bacteria that is causing the infection, and the infection does not clear up as it should. It is important to know the different options when seeking antibiotic treatment for ear infections.

About

• A course of antibiotics is the typical way to treat an ear infection. When an ear infection does not dissipate after antibiotic treatment, it may be necessary to try a different antibiotic.

Penicillin Antibiotics

• Penicillin antibiotics are probably the most commonly prescribed ear infection treatments, especially for children. They include the antibiotics called Amoxicillin and Augmentin.

Sulfonamide Antibiotics

• Sulfonamide antibiotics include Bactrim, Septra and Gantrisin. They are prescribed when an individual with an ear infection is allergic to penicillin.

Cephalosporin Antibiotics

• Cephalosporin antibiotics are Ceftin, Ceclor and Vantin. These types of antibiotics can cause an allergic reaction, a rash, or diarrhea.

Combinations

• Sometimes a combination of antibiotics is required for complete healing of an ear infection. Pediazole is an example of one of these combination antibiotics.