Antibiotics are prescribed if your sinus infection is suspected to be a bacterial cause. Antibiotics work by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria to resolve the sinus infection.
Examples include Amoxicillin (Amoxil), Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin), Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), Cefaclor (Ceclor), and Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim DS).
Corticosteroids can improve sinus drainage by reducing inflammation of the sinuses. Examples include prednisone and methylprednisolone (Medrol) which are prescribed and also fluticasone (Flonase) which can be purchased over-the-counter.
Antihistamines help by reducing or stopping an allergic reaction. Examples include Benadryl, Clartin, Allegra, Zyrtec, and Xyzal which can be purchased over-the-counter.
Decongestants help by reducing swelling, pressure, and congestion of mucus in the nasal passages. For sinus infections, they will typically be used in the form of a nasal spray or oral pills. Examples include Vicks Sinus Nasal Spray, Afrin Nasal Spray, and Sudafed which can be purchased over-the-counter.
Tylenol helps with the symptoms of pain and fever, while NSAIDS help with the symptoms of pain and fever, as well as swelling and inflammation. Both can be purchased over-the-counter.
Saltwater rinses, humidifiers, warm compresses, and drinking plenty of water.