Many ear infections improve on their own, so guidelines support a watchful-waiting option with pain control for some children. When an antibiotic is used, amoxicillin is first-line for most.
What guidelines recommend to try first. Tap one we rate for its independent monograph.
First-line per AAP/AAFP for most children who haven't recently taken it.
Preferred if amoxicillin was taken in the past 30 days, with concurrent purulent conjunctivitis, or recurrent infection.
Cefdinir / cefuroxime / cefpodoxime
Cephalosporin options for a non-severe penicillin allergy (we stock cefixime among the cephalosporins).
Options for a more severe penicillin allergy.
Pain control matters as much as antibiotics, and a 48–72 hour observation period is appropriate for many children — ask your clinician.
AAP/AAFP — Diagnosis and Management of Acute Otitis Media (via CDC pediatric outpatient guidance) ↗
General reference, not medical advice. Antibiotics are prescription-only; the right one depends on the specific infection, local resistance, your allergies, and your clinician’s judgment. Don’t self-treat, and never use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s — that drives resistance and can be dangerous. See a licensed clinician.