Sinus infections, known by the medical term sinusitis, cause the lining of the sinus cavities to become inflamed, leading to sinus headaches and persistent nasal drainage. Bacteria in the sinuses typically cause these very uncomfortable infections. Physicians often prescribe an antibiotic to treat the bacteria underlying the infection.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is penicillin-based antibiotic that blocks the ability of many bacteria to make cell walls, a crucial component of the bacteria's structure. When treated with a cell wall synthesis inhibitor such as amoxicillin, the individual bacteria cells will continue to grow until they burst and die. The Cleveland Clinic explains that amoxicillin and other penicillin derivatives are considered to be narrow-spectrum antibiotics, effective only against a limited number of bacteria, but less likely to promote drug resistance. There are potentially dangerous side effects to amoxicillin. These side effects include rashes, nausea, dizziness, headache and tongue swelling.
Ceftin
Ceftin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used in the treatment of sinusitis. Ceftin is effective against a broad range of infections but more likely to lead to the development of resistant strains of bacteria. Ceftin belongs to a class of antibacterial drugs cephalosporins. These antibiotics, which also include Cedax and Keflex, are regarded as a standard treatment for sinus infections. Like penicillin and amoxicillin, Ceftin and other cephalosporins inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis. Only 20 percent of individuals allergic to penicillins are allergic to Ceftin. Drugs.com explains however, that allergic reactions to Ceftin can be dangerous and that patients with allergies to penicillin should be carefully monitored while using Ceftin.
Biaxin
Biaxin, known generically as clarithromycin, belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics. This narrow-spectrum antibiotic prevents bacteria from making new proteins. Biaxin does not kill bacteria directly, but does prevent their further growth, allowing for their elimination by the immune system. According to drug information provided by PubMed Health, Biaxin use results in fewer side effects than cephalosporins and penicillin use. These mild side effects typically include diarrhea, nausea and heartburn. More severe side effects are rare, though possible with Biaxin. Individuals who experience symptoms of allergic shock while using Biaxin, such as rashes, hives, rapid heartbeat and breathing difficulties, should seek immediate medical attention.
Avelox
Avelox is a powerful, broad-spectrum antibiotic that interferes with the DNA replication process in bacteria. Avelox is known as a fluoroquinolone antibiotic and is similar in function to the antibiotics Cipro and Levaquin. Although Avelox is very effective at killing strong, potentially drug-resistant bacteria, there are potential side effects and dangers to Avelox use. Drug safety information provided by Healthsquare.com explains that people with certain heart conditions should avoid Avelox. Avelox may also cause dizziness, headaches and lightheadedness.
