Although antibiotics are important to use in treatment of sinus infections, it is extremely important to allow the mucus in the sinuses to drain adequately. The way this is done is to use nasal sprays containing small amounts of cortisone to reduce the inflammation inside the nose and around the ostia (the opening from the sinuses into the nose). (There is minimal absorption of any of the cortisone nasal sprays into the body and so they are very safe). there is a list of the various steroid nasal sprays in the allergy section. In some cases antifungal treatments need to be used. ( There is a section on fungal sinusitis later in the website.)

We also use decongestants like Sudafed to reduce the swelling inside the nose, as well as drugs such as guaifenesin (the active ingredient in Robitussin) contained Mucinex ( non-prescription) as well as several prescription medications. to reduce the thickness of the mucus. These must be used in high dosages, typically 2400 mg. per day. Discuss that with your doctor because there can be side effects.

There used to be another decongestant, phenylpropanolamine, available, but it is no longer available in the United States because of side effects.