Which medication is typically used in the treatment of acute otitis media?

Amoxicillin is the first-line antibiotic treatment for acute otitis media (AOM) in both children and adults. This medication is effective against the most common pathogens that cause AOM, including Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.

In cases of mild AOM, observation without immediate antibiotic treatment may also be an option, particularly in older children, but if antibiotics are indicated, amoxicillin remains the recommended choice due to its efficacy, safety profile, and generally well-tolerated nature.

While ibuprofen can be used for symptomatic relief of pain and fever associated with AOM, it does not address the underlying bacterial infection. Azithromycin can be an alternative for patients who are allergic to penicillin, but it is not typically the first choice due to concerns about resistance and efficacy compared to amoxicillin. Cephalexin, a cephalosporin antibiotic, is also not the first-line therapy for AOM but may be used in certain cases, particularly for patients with penicillin allergies who require a different class of antibiotic. Amoxicillin remains the cornerstone treatment and is widely recommended in clinical guidelines for AOM.