Ear infections are very common in children. They can cause fever, ear pain and sometimes appear with upper respiratory infections. Two main types are outer ear and inner ear infections. Each of these infections may be treated with antibiotics. Because of the development of superbugs, or bacteria that do not respond to first-line antibiotics, many physicians are using an observation option. This means that antibiotics will not be prescribed initially, unless there are other underlying medical conditions. The physician will wait to evaluate the infection after several days to determine if the infection will clear without treatment.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a first-line antibiotic for ear infections, unless the child is allergic to penicillin. According to AskDrSears.com, amoxicillin is used more frequently because it tastes good, which will increase the likelihood the child will take and finish the medication. It also is inexpensive, is easy on the gastrointestinal tract and works most of the time. It may be prescribed for five or 10 days and may require a second course of treatment if the infection does not clear the first time.
Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium
AskDrSears.com notes that amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium, sometimes known as Augmentin, is a second-line choice used when amoxicillin was not successful or in children who have chronic ear infections. The addition of clavulanate is used to overcome resistance in bacteria that secrete a chemical, beta-lactamase. According to Drugs.com, this helps to counteract the possible bacterial resistance to amoxicillin. Children who are allergic to penicillin, have liver disease, kidney disease or have mononucleosis may not be able to use this medication.
Cefuroxime Axetil
According to KeepKidsHealthy.com, another option pediatricians may use is cefuroxime axetil. Side effects of this antibiotic may include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Although it is rare, other more serious allergic reactions may also occur. According to RxList.com, the antibiotic is available as a tablet or suspension and is effective for acute bacterial ear infections that are caused by Streptococcus pneumonia, Haemophilus influenza, Streptococcus pyogenes and Moraxella catarrhalis.
Rocephin
KeepKidsHealthy.com says doctors may recommend a shot of rocephin for children who have antibiotic-resistant bacteria causing their ear infections. This medication is a cephalosporin and is indicated for treatment in ear infections caused by Streptoccocus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenza and Moraxella catarrhalis, according to the manufacturer Roche. The antibiotic is available as an intramuscular injection that is given in the gluteal muscles.
