A sinus infection, often referred to as sinusitis, is characterized by inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages. The sinuses are air-filled hollows within the bones of the nose, jaw and cheeks. Sinusitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Bacterial sinusitis may be classified as acute or chronic. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, acute bacterial sinusitis may last up to four weeks, while chronic bacterial sinusitis can as long as 12 weeks. Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial sinusitis.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin drug group. It may be used to treat chronic sinusitis. Amoxicillin is supplied either as a tablet or a liquid for oral administration and may taken with or without food. It may not be suitable for all patients including those with asthma, liver or kidney disease, bleeding disorders and allergy. The side effects of amoxicillin may include headache, nausea, oral thrush and nausea.
Moxifloxacin
Moxifloxacin is an antibiotic that belongs to a class of drugs known as fluoroquinolones. Moxifloxacin works by hindering the manufacturing of certain proteins needed for bacteria to survive. It may not be suitable for all patients suffering from a sinus infection, including pregnant women and people with conditions such as myasthenia gravis, cirrhosis, epilepsy and diabetes. Side effects may include skin itching, blurred vision, drowsiness and nausea. Moxifloxacin also makes the skin more sensitive to the sun, so patients undergoing moxifloxacin treatment should avoid using sun beds and prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that belongs to the group of drugs known as tetracyclines. It is available as a tablet, liquid or syrup. Doxycycline works by stopping the growth of bacteria. According to MedlinePlus, it is usually taken once or twice a day, although a doctor should advise on the correct dose and treatment schedule. It causes side effects which include a sore mouth, diarrhea and itching of the rectum or vagina.
