A sinus infection occurs when sinuses or nasal membranes become infected by some type of virus. A sinus infection typically results from sinusitis or an inflammation of the nasal membranes. When the nasal membranes become irritated or inflamed, they may swell or even contract, preventing the adequate drainage of the sinuses. Mucus may accumulate and if the person comes into contact with a virus, a sinus infection develops. Moderate or severe sinus infections may be treated with antibiotics.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a form of penicillin created under laboratory conditions. In the treatment of a sinus infection, physicians prescribe amoxicillin in the form of a tablet or capsule. Common brands of amoxicillin include Amoxil, Amoxil Pediatric, Prevpac, Amoxicot, Trimox, Moxilin and Moxatag. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it proves important to take amoxicillin or any other antibiotic until the full prescription is gone. Many patients stop taking antibiotics once symptoms improve or dissipate. However, they should take the full prescription to help the immune system fight off the bacteria that caused the infection.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline is another form of antibiotic used to treat a sinus infection. Doxycycline is also available in a capsule or tablet form. Common forms of doxycycline include Doryx, Adoxa Pak 1/150, Adoxa Pak 1/75, Oracea, Adoxa, Periostat, Monodox, NutriDox Convenience, Adoxa CK, Vibramycin Monohydrate, Adoxa TT, Avidoxy, Avidoxy DK, Vibramycin Calcium and Vibramycin Hyclate. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking doxycycline on an empty stomach so that it works more effectively. If patients miss a dosage of an antibiotic, they should take it as soon as possible and continue taking it as recommended.
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a form of sulfanomide that comes in a tablet form when treating sinus infections. Common brands of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole include Sulfatrim Pediatric, Bactrim DS, Septra DS, SMZ-TMP DS, Septra, Bactrim and Sulfatrim. Regardless of which antibiotic patients take, if it doesn't appear get rid of the infection, they may need another antibiotic prescription.
