Are Antibiotics Beneficial in Children with Acute Sinusitis?

The main challenge in the treatment of common respiratory infections is to avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics. However, limited data exist to guide management of acute sinusitis in children. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial, researchers examined the effectiveness of a 14-day course of amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (90 mg/kg in 2 divided doses daily) in children (age range, 1–10 years) with acute sinusitis at two private practices in Pennsylvania during a 2.5-year period. A clinical diagnosis of acute bacterial sinusitis was defined as new-onset nasal discharge or cough for more than 10 days, worsening nasal discharge or cough on or after day 6, or temperature ≥102°F for 3 or more days and purulent nasal discharge.

Of 2…