Ear infections--otitis media--commonly occur because of bacterial inflammation in the middle ear, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC. The infection may result from fluid trapped in the Eustachian tube of the ear, which runs from the nose to the upper throat. Most ear infections resolve on their own, however infants and young children often require antibiotic treatment. Adults may also require oral antibiotics for severe bacterial infections. There are a number of different types of antibiotics for ear infections that doctors prescribe that patients should take as directed.
Penicillins
As listed at MayoClinic.com, the penicillin family of antibiotics includes amoxicillin, which remains the most common antibiotic to treat ear infections. Amoxicillin is a synthetic inexpensive form of penicillin that absorbs well. Augmentin consists of amoxicillin along with other medical ingredients that help to inhibit bacterial resistance. Most individuals will respond to amoxicillin within two to three days, though a course of 10 days may prove necessary for children and adults with severe infections. If the individual has an allergy to any penicillin, then physicians should not prescribe amoxicillin. Patients should inform physicians if their symptoms don't respond to this antibiotic or if a skin rash or other symptoms occur.
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Physicians will prescribe sulfonamide antibiotics if the patient has an allergy or sensitivity to penicillins. This family of antibiotics includes the brand names bactrim and septra. Another sulfonamide antibiotic, acetyl sulfisoxazole combined with other antibiotics proves a popular treatment for children with chronic ear infections because it is used only once a day. Side effects of sulfonamides include stomach upset, dizziness and sun-sensitivity.
Macrolide Antibiotics
The macrolides group of antibiotics includes the commonly prescribed erythromycin, which is also used in combination antibiotic treatment for infections as listed by the UMMC. Other macrolide antibiotics in this family include azithromycin and clarithromycin, which work by inhibiting the protein growth and reproduction of bacteria. These antibiotic medications do not usually cause side effects but some individuals may experience, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Taking macrolide antibiotics with food to decrease stomach upset.
Cephalosporins
Cephalosporins are another class of antibiotics prescribed for ear infections in some cases, such as if there is no response to penicillin or macrolide antibiotics within two to three days. They prove similar to penicillins and individuals with penicillin allergies may also react to cephalosporins. These antibiotics are administered orally or by injections and are also more expensive.
