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Amoxicillin in the Treatment of Mastoiditis: Efficacy, Challenges, and Future Directions

Wajan Khalid
College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62521, Saudi Arabia
Manar Alzahrani
College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
Ghassan Alqahtani
Department of Pharmacy, AlNahdi Medical Company, Jeddah 21484, Saudi Arabia
Razan Mushayt ORCID
Department of Pharmacy, Abha International Private Hospital, Abha 62521, Saudi Arabia
Ayat Al Sinan
College of Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia
Sadeem Alsultani
College of Pharmacy, Northern Borders University, Rafha 76413, Saudi Arabia
Aryam Alenezi ORCID
Department of Pharmacy Services, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Musaad Hospital, Arar 91451, Saudi Arabia
Khawlah Alenezi ORCID
Department of Pharmacy Services, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Musaad Hospital, Arar 91451, Saudi Arabia
Lama Alanazi ORCID
Department of Pharmacy Services, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Musaad Hospital, Arar 91451, Saudi Arabia
Tahani Abdullah
Department of Nursing, Northern Area Armed Forces Hospital, Hafar Al Batin 31991, Saudi Arabia
Khadijah Abdullah
Department of Supply, Northern Area Armed Forces Hospital, Hafar Al Batin 31991, Saudi Arabia
Mohammed Daban
Department of Supply, Northern Area Armed Forces Hospital, Hafar Al Batin 31991, Saudi Arabia
Naif Samah
Department of Supply, Northern Area Armed Forces Hospital, Hafar Al Batin 31991, Saudi Arabia
Modhi Farhan
Department of Supply, Northern Area Armed Forces Hospital, Hafar Al Batin 31991, Saudi Arabia

Received: 30 September 2025; Revised: 15 December 2025; Accepted: 20 January 2026; Published: 28 January 2026

Abstract

Mastoiditis, a serious complication of acute otitis media, primarily affects the pediatric population and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe complications. This review explores the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic techniques, and therapeutic approaches for mastoiditis, focusing on the role of amoxicillin in its management. The anatomical connection between the middle ear and mastoid air cells facilitates the spread of infection, which is further influenced by inflammatory processes, bacterial biofilms, and host immune responses. Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical findings, imaging studies such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, and microbiological cultures to guide targeted antibiotic therapy. Amoxicillin remains the first-line treatment for non-resistant cases owing to its effectiveness against common pathogens, safety profile, and cost efficiency. However, the increasing prevalence of β-lactamase-producing bacteria necessitates the use of amoxicillin-clavulanate in resistant cases. Antibiotic selection should be based on local resistance patterns and patient-specific factors, such as allergies and comorbidities. Surgical interventions, including mastoidectomy, are required in advanced or refractory cases. Future research should focus on developing novel diagnostic tools, optimizing antibiotic regimens, and implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs to combat drug resistance. Global collaboration is essential for establishing standardized guidelines and improving access to high-quality care in resource-limited settings.

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