GENERIC NAME: CIPROFLOXACIN/DEXAMETHASONE - OTIC SUSPENSION (sip-row-FLOX-ah-sin/dex-uh-METH-uh-sown)
BRAND NAME(S): Ciprodex
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is a quinolone antibiotic and corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory) combination used to treat ear infections including both middle ear infections in children with ear tubes and for outer ear infections (also known as Swimmer's ear).
HOW TO USE: This medication is generally used twice daily as directed. For accuracy and to avoid contamination, have another person insert the drops if possible. Before using, hold container in the hand for a few minutes in order to warm it. This will minimize dizziness. Wash hands before applying ear drops. 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. When treating middle ear infections in children with ear tubes, the child should lie down with the treated ear upward. Place the dropper directly over the ear and place the appropriate number of drops into the ear canal. Next press the tragus (cartilage flap covering the opening to the ear) 5 times in a pumping motion to allow the medicine to pass through the ear tubes in the ear drum and into the middle ear. Keep the head tilted with treated ear upward for at least 60 seconds. When treating outer ear infections, the patient should lie down with the treated ear upward. Place the dropper directly over the ear and place the appropriate number of drops into the ear canal. While placing the drops into the ear, the outer ear lobe should be gently pulled upward and backward to allow the drops to flow down into the ear canal. Keep the head tilted with treated ear upward for at least 60 seconds. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Continue to use this medication until the full-prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection. If the infection is not improved in 7 days, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Report any ear discharge that occurs after the treatment period is completed. If after treatment with this medication, you develop two or more ear infections in a 6 month period, contact your doctor. You may require further evaluation and a different kind of treatment. Do not use in the eye. Read the patient information leaflet available from your pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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