The most widely accepted empiric treatment for Bell's palsy is:

Rationale: A. NSAIDs may help with pain but do not treat the underlying inflammation of the facial nerve in Bell’s palsy. B. Third-generation cephalosporins are antibiotics and are not indicated unless there is a concurrent bacterial infection. C. Gabapentin is used for neuropathic pain but is not first-line therapy for Bell’s palsy. D. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, is the most widely accepted empiric treatment for Bell’s palsy. It reduces inflammation and edema of the facial nerve, improving the likelihood of recovery, especially when started early.