An inner ear infection, medically known as otitis media, is typically a childhood condition characterized by pain in the ears, tugging at the ears, crying, a high fever, headaches and a clear fluid that drains from the ear, says the Mayo Clinic. Although a childhood disease, an inner ear infection can also affect adults. An earache, fever, dizziness and temporary hearing loss may result. Fortunately, antibiotic medications are available to treat inner ear infections.
Amoxicillin and Clavulanate
Amoxicillin and clavulanate are antibiotic medications that belong to the class of drugs known as penicillins. Specifically, these two medicines combined eliminate bacteria in the body. Amoxicillin and clavulanate also treats sinus infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections and pneumonia, according to Drugs.com.
Amoxicillin and clavulanate's common side effects include nausea, vomiting, gas, diarrhea, a skin rash and white patches in the mouth or throat. These drugs can also lead to a vaginal yeast infection, stomach pain and a headache. Tell a physician when amoxicillin and clavulanate's common effects remain for more than five to seven days.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes, a poor appetite, clay-colored stool and dark urine are serious side effects of amoxicillin and clavulanate. Call a physician immediately.
Amoxicillin and clavulanate is available as a regular, chewable or extended-release tablet that must be taken as prescribed.
Cefprozil
Cefprozil is a cephalosporin antibiotic that prevents the further growth of the bacteria's cell wall. This leads to the bacteria's demise, says Drugs.com.
Cefprozil's typical side effects include dizziness, muscle stiffness, vaginal itching or discharge, restlessness, diarrhea, itching and hyperactivity. Tell a physician when cefprozil causes these symptoms. Cefprozil's serious effects include abnormal bleeding, watery or bloody diarrhea, yellowing of the skin or eyes, peeling or blistering of the skin, seizures and shortness of breath. Call a doctor immediately when cefprozil causes these effects.
Cefprozil is available as a liquid or tablet that should be taken as prescribed.
Azithromycin
Azithromycin is an antibiotic medication that not only treats inner ear infections but also sexually transmitted diseases and infections affecting the lungs, skin and throat. Azithromycin belongs to a class of drugs known as macrolide antibiotics, says MedlinePlus. It prevents the growth of bacteria.
Azithromycin's common effects include diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain and a skin rash. Its severe effects include trouble breathing or swallowing, yellowing of the skin or eyes, a pounding or rapid heartbeat, itching and swelling of the tongue, throat, face, legs or ankles. Call a doctor when azithromycin causes these effects.
Azithromycin is a liquid or tablet taken daily for one to five days, says MedlinePlus.
