What is the treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis in adults?

In the management of acute bacterial sinusitis in adults, amoxicillin is commonly considered the first-line treatment, particularly in cases where the infection is presumed to be caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae. Amoxicillin offers broad coverage against these typical pathogens and is effective in alleviating symptoms while minimizing the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.

This choice is supported by clinical guidelines that recommend amoxicillin due to its safety profile, oral bioavailability, and track record in effectively treating sinus infections. Its ease of use in outpatient settings and the low incidence of side effects further bolster its preferred status in this clinical scenario.

Other antibiotics listed, while they may have efficacy against sinusitis pathogens, are typically reserved for cases of resistance, allergy to penicillin, or when patients have not responded to first-line therapy. Cephalosporins like cefuroxime might be considered for individuals who have had previous treatment failures or significant allergies, while doxycycline and levofloxacin, although effective, are generally used in more complicated or atypical cases. Therefore, amoxicillin stands out as the appropriate choice for straightforward cases of acute bacterial sinusitis in adults.