Don't routinely prescribe antibiotics for acute mild-to-moderate sinusitis unless symptoms last for seven or more days OR symptoms worsen after initial clinical improvement. (Symptoms must include discolored nasal secretions AND facial or dental tenderness to percussion.)
Most sinusitis in the ambulatory setting is due to a viral infection that will resolve on its own. Despite consistent recommendations to the contrary, antibiotics are prescribed in over 80% of outpatient visits for acute sinusitis.
Sinusitis accounts for 16 million office visits and $5.8 billion in annual health care.
Sources: Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Cochrane, and Annals of Internal Medicine
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Prescription of Antibiotics for Acute, Mild-to-moderate Sinusitis
Choosing Wisely
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