Final answer:
The first-line treatment for otitis media is: 1) Antibiotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acute Otitis Media (AOM) primarily affects children and is one of the most common reasons for antibiotic prescriptions in the pediatric population. When discussing the first-line treatment for this condition, high-dose amoxicillin stands out as the initial therapy choice. The success of this antibiotic in treating AOM has been established, owing to its efficacy against common bacterial pathogens and its safety profile.
For cases where antibiotics might not be immediately warranted, or in situations where symptomatic relief is a priority, pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can be used to alleviate ear pain and discomfort. These measures do not treat the infection itself, but they are essential for patient comfort. So the correct answer is option 1) Antibiotics.