This medication is used to treat bacterial ear
infections. It is used to treat outer ear infections (also known as
swimmer's ear) in children and adults. This medication contains a
combination of ciprofloxacin (a quinolone-type antibiotic) and
hydrocortisone (an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid). This ear drop works
by stopping the growth of bacteria and reducing ear swelling and
discomfort.
This medication treats only bacterial ear infections. It
will not work for other types of ear infections. Unnecessary use or overuse
of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
Use this medication as directed by your doctor, usually
twice daily (every 12 hours). The ear canal should be clean and dry before
using this medication.
To make sure that the right amount of medication is
given, and to avoid touching the ear with the dropper, have another person
give the drops if possible. To lower the risk of dizziness, hold the
container in your hand for a few minutes in order to warm
it.
To apply ear drops, wash your hands first. To avoid
contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your ear or any
other surface. Shake the container well before using.
Lie on your side with the treated ear upward. Hold the
dropper directly over the ear, and place the prescribed number of drops
into the ear canal. To help the drops roll into the ear of an adult, hold
the earlobe up and back. For children, hold the earlobe down and back. Keep
the head tilted with the treated ear upward for about 1 minute, or insert a
soft cotton plug if so directed. Repeat the above steps for the other ear
if so directed. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the cap after
use.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most
benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
Continue to use this medication for the full time prescribed, even if
symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may
result in a return of the infection.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse
after 7 days of treatment. Report any fluid you find in the ear after
treatment is completed.
Do not use in the eye.
Headache may occur with the use of this medication. If
this effect lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods
may result in a new fungal ear infection. Do not use this medication for
longer than prescribed. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening
symptoms.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to quinolone antibiotics (such as
ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), or to corticosteroids (such as
hydrocortisone, prednisone); or if you have any other allergies. This
product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- a hole in your ear drum
- an ear infection caused by a virus (such as herpes simplex,
varicella)
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk but is unlikely
to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before
breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669. This medicine may be harmful if
swallowed.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Throw away the unused medication after treatment is
completed. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor
tells you to.
It is important to keep the infected ear(s) clean and
dry. Try not to get the infected ear(s) wet when bathing. Avoid swimming
unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from light. Do not
freeze. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.