What medication type is typically prescribed for an acute, bacterial sinus infection?

For an acute bacterial sinus infection, antibiotics are the primary treatment option. This is because bacterial infections can lead to inflammation and excess mucus production in the sinuses, creating a blockage that may cause symptoms like nasal congestion, facial pain, and pressure. Antibiotics target the specific bacteria responsible for the infection, helping to eliminate them and subsequently relieve the symptoms associated with the sinusitis.

While other types of medications may be utilized to manage symptoms or support recovery, they do not specifically target the bacterial infection itself. Antivirals are utilized for viral infections and would not be effective against a bacterial cause. Antihistamines may help with allergies but are not indicated for bacterial infections, and decongestants can alleviate nasal congestion but do not address the underlying bacterial infection. Thus, antibiotics are essential in treating the root cause of acute bacterial sinus infections, making them the preferred choice.