Amoxicillin is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics to get rid of ear infections. In case, amoxicillin doesn’t work, a stronger antibiotic such as Augmentin ES may be recommended.
Ear infections are a result of bacteria making their way into the ear canal. However, bacteria can also gain access to ear parts by entering through the nose. Ear pain, runny nose, and partial blockage of ear due to formation of pus are some of the common symptoms of an ear infection, that can always be treated with antibiotics.
Antibiotic Treatment
Amoxicillin
This oral antibiotic belonging to the penicillin family has been very effective to kill bacteria at the earliest. Intake of low strength amoxicillin tablet once or twice a day, is all that is required to eliminate this infection in a few days. When antibiotics become necessary to get rid of this annoying issue, amoxicillin has always been the first choice of treatment.
Cefaclor
This antibiotic does not come from penicillin group but is actually classified as a cephalosporin. The antibiotics that come under the class of cephalosporins can also help to cure a wide range of bacterial infections, including those that affect the ear and the throat. Within 2-3 days of its usage, the symptoms will come under control.
Augmentin ES
This medication is used only in severe cases. Acute and recurring ear infections might not respond to amoxicillin. The person complaining about ear pain even after taking amoxicillin for 3-4 days, is an indication of its ineffectiveness in eliminating the bacteria. In such cases, doctor recommend Augmentin ES, that is actually a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. This antibacterial combination is powerful enough to destroy the bacteria. The antibiotic resistance shown by the bacteria to amoxicillin, doesn’t work in front of Augmentin ES, which is a stronger version of amoxicillin.
Rocephin
In some cases, it is observed that the patient experiences frequent bouts of vomiting, during a severe ear infection. In such circumstances, taking the medicine orally would not be a good option. So, doctors go for Rocephin (ceftriaxone), which can be administered only through injections. This medication is given only when it is found that the bacteria is resistant to amoxicillin. Rocephin belonging to the cephalosporin family, is an intravenous medication, that has a high success rate in effective management of acute ear infections.
It is advised that patients complete the duration of antibiotic treatment and refrain from discontinuing the medicine after the ear problem subsides. This will help to prevent recurrence of ear infections. Keep in mind that usage of antibiotics comes into picture only when conservative treatment fail to reduce the symptoms. In case the bacterial infection doesn’t go away in a week’s time, one will have to take antibiotics but should first consult a doctor to know about their exact dosage. Antibiotic treatment can be troublesome if these prescription medications are not taken in the right dosage. So make sure these antibiotics are consumed as instructed by the doctor.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
