Inner ear infections usually affect the middle of the inner ear and are common in children. This type of infection is known as otitis media. MayoClinic.com notes that three in four children will likely experience at least one ear infection before they are three years old. In contrast, inner ear infections are relatively uncommon in adults. Although ear infections usually clear up without any medical intervention, antibiotics may be prescribed if the infection doe not clear by itself. According to MayoClinic.com, antibiotics are recommended for children younger than six months old, and children and adults who have experienced two or more ear infections in space of 30 days.
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic and is the drug of choice for an ear infection, according to The New York Times Health Guide. Amoxicillin is available by prescription and is supplied as an tablet for oral administration, but babies and young children who need amoxicillin may be given drops. Amoxicillin should not be used by patients with a known allergy to penicillin. Women should also be aware that amoxicillin may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Amoxicillin may cause side effects including oral thrush, nausea and headache.
Azithromycin
According to The New York Times Health Guide, azithromycin may be suitable for patients who are allergic to penicillin drugs like amoxicillin. Azithromycin belongs to the class of drugs known as macrolides and is supplied as tablets or as a liquid suspension for oral adminstration. Patients should complete the entire prescribed course of azithromycin in order for it to treat an inner infection effectively. Over-exposure to sunlight should be avoided while taking azithromycin as it makes the skin more sensitive to sun damage. Azithromycin may cause side effects including fatigue, nausea and itchy skin.
Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin, also known by the trade name, Biaxin, is another macrolide antibiotic used for the treatment of inner ear infections. It is supplied tablets or granules for oral suspension. It should not be used by patients already taking medications such as cisapride and pimozide. According to RxList.com, clarithromycin is usually taken for seven to 14 days and it is important that patients complete the entire treatment schedule in order for clarithromycin to effectively clear the infection. Clarithromycin may cause side effects including mild stomach ache, a skin rash and headache.
