Middle Ear Infection Treatments

Medication

Antibiotics are commonly used to treat ear infections. Examples include:

• Amoxicillin (Amoxil, Polymox)
• Clavulanate (Augmentin)

Other medications sometimes used include:

• Cephalosporins (cefprozil, cefdinir, cefpodoxime, ceftriaxone)
• Sulfa drugs (Septra, Bactrim, Pediazole)

Since bacteria develop a resistance to antibiotics, doctors may take a "wait and see" approach. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic for your child and ask you to use the medication if the pain or fever lasts for a certain number of days. This approach has been effective. *

Some ear infections are caused by a virus. This type will not go away faster with antibiotics. Most middle ear infections (including bacterial ones) tend to improve on their own in 2-3 days.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Pain relievers can help reduce pain, fever, and irritability. These include:

• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprofen
• Note: Aspirin is not recommended for children with a current or recent viral infection. Check with your doctor before giving a child aspirin.

Decongestants and antihistamines are not recommended to treat an ear infection. *²

Ear Drops

Ear drops may help decrease pain. If there is a chance that the eardrum has ruptured, do not use ear drops.

Myringotomy

Myringotomy is surgery done to open the eardrum. A tiny cut is made in the eardrum to drain fluid and pus.