Kate:  I would recommend against using antibiotics for ear infections.  The
protocols for tx of ear infections have changed recently based upon an
AHCPR-sponsored meta analysis of the use of antibiotics for otitis media.
Antibiotics did not improve the outcome, nor lessen the potential for
reduced hearing acuity.  They did not appreciably shorten the course of the
infection.

I often recommend a substitute though...have you tried using Kyolic
deodorized garlic drops in the ear and covered with cotton?  The other tx
that I recently posted about was Xylitol, which has also been shown to both
prevent and tx otitis media and sinus infections.

Good luck deciding.  If you go the antibiotic route, you may give your child
oral probiotics to re-establish the beneficial bacteria.
Warmly,
Chris
--
--Chris Hafner-Eaton, PhD, MPH, CHES, IBCLC    [log in to unmask]
INFANT CUISINE AND MOTHER CARE: Lactation Consulting, Perinatal Health
Education and Attachment Parenting Classes for parents and practitioners

             ***********************************************
The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html