Antibiotic Treatment for Bad Breath

Bad breath (halitosis) can be a result of easily remedied lifestyle issues, such as diet and poor oral hygiene. However, in some cases, medical conditions such as tooth decay, sinus and respiratory infections or stomach disorders can be the cause of halitosis. In order to resolve bad breath, these underlying conditions may require treatment with an antibiotic.

Penicillins

• Penicillin antibiotics, such as amoxicillin and Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate), are the most commonly used antibiotics to treat dental conditions. They are also used for the treatment of respiratory and sinus infections. Amoxicillin is also used to treat ulcers in combination with anti-ulcer drugs.

Tetracyclines

• Achromycin (tetracycline) is commonly used in the treatment of ulcers. Achromycin and Vibramycin (doxycycline) are sometimes used in the treatment of sinus and respiratory infections and in the treatment of resistant dental infections. Tetracyclines are considered as an alternative antibiotic for penicillin allergies, but these drugs should not be taken by pregnant women or children under the age of seven, due to discoloration in developing teeth.

Erythromycins

• Zithromax (azithromycin) is commonly used to treat sinus infections and respiratory infections. Biaxin (clarithromycin) is used in the treatment of ulcers, and formulations of erythromycin may be used to treat dental infections in cases of penicillin resistance or allergy.

Metronidazole

• Flagyl (metronidazole) may be used to treat ulcers and dental infections, which are resistant to other antibiotics. Flagyl cannot be taken within 48 hours of the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Sulfa Antibiotics

• Septra (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole), also known as TMP/SMZ, may be used in dental infections and respiratory infections of all types as an alternative to penicillins for cases of resistance or penicillin allergy.