If the infection is bacterial, an antibiotic like amoxicillin might be necessary to clear it.
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How Does Amoxicillin Work for a Sinus Infection?
These bacteria can include:
Bacterial vs.
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Viral Sinus Infections
Antibiotics are not necessary for viral sinus infections.
Typically, a viral sinus infection will resolve within 10 days.
However, your healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic like amoxicillin if they suspect your sinus infection is bacterial.
This can cause stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea.
It is very important to take amoxicillin as it was prescribed.
How Long Will Amoxicillin Take to Work?
It is important always to take amoxicillin for however long your healthcare provider prescribed it.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose of your amoxicillin, take it as soon as you remember.
Do not take two doses of amoxicillin at the same time.
What Side Effects Should I Expect?
As with other antibiotics, side effects are possible with amoxicillin.
That being said, you might not experience any side effects at all with it.
Side effects of taking amoxicillin can include nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Let your healthcare provider know if you develop severe diarrhea during your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both amoxicillin and doxycycline can be used for the treatment of sinus infections.
The author would like to recognize and thank Jon Candelaria for contributing to this article.
Lambert M.IDSA releases guidelines for management of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis.American Family Physician.
2013;87(6):445-449.
Food and Drug Administration.Amoxil label.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.C.
Ramsey A.Penicillin allergy and perioperative anaphylaxis.Frontiers in Allergy.
