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Medications to Treat Sinus Infections

A sinus infection is an inflammation of the sinus cavities, which can cause pain, pressure and excess mucus. These infections usually stem from a cold, but bacteria, fungi and allergies also can trigger the infection. Most sinus infections go away on their own and can be treated with home therapies. However, severe or chronic infections may require medical treatment. Choosing the most effective medicine for a sinus infection depends on the cause of the infection.

  1. Antibiotics

    • Antibiotics typically are prescribed for sinus infections that linger for a long period of time and don't respond to other interventions. Antibiotics only will help if the infection is bacterial in nature. Commonly used antibiotics for sinus infections include doxycycline and amoxicillin. If you must take an antibiotic for a sinus infection, make sure you finish the entire prescription even if you start feeling better during the course of treatment.

    Pain Relievers

    • Various over the counter medications can relieve the discomfort associated with sinus infections. Acetaminphen (Tylenol) and aspirin (or medications containing aspirin) target and relieve pain symptoms. Ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) or Naproxen (Alleve) can help with pain and inflammation.

    Decongestants

    • Decongestants work to reduce the size of the blood vessels in the nose so that air can pass more easily. Commonly used decongestants include phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine. Brand names include Sudafed, Actifed, Contac and Drixoral. Decongestants often appear in combination with other medications such as pain relievers, antihistamines and drugs for relieving coughing. Extensive use of decongestants can irritate nasal passages and bring about greater congestion.

    Corticosteroids

    • Nasal corticosteriods reduce nasal and sinus inflammation. This type of medication usually comes in the form of a nasal spray. Two of the most common types of nasal corticosteroids are fluticasone (Flonase) and mometasone (Nasonex). Overuse can aggravate sinus infections, rather than help them.

    Antihistamines

    • Antihistamines target symptoms stemming from allergy-type sinus infections. This type of medication works to reduce symptoms such as runny nose, itchy nose and eyes, and watery eyes. Examples of antihistamines include Benadryl, Allegra and Allevert. They also are often found in combination type medicines that also contain decongestants, pain relievers and cough medications.

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