ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone suspension - otic, Ciprodex
GENERIC NAME: CIPROFLOXACIN/DEXAMETHASONE SUSPENSION - OTIC (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 used to treat bacterial ear infections. It is used to treat middle ear infections in children with ear tubes, as well as 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 dexamethasone (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.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.This medication is usually used twice daily (every 12 hours) or as directed by your doctor. The ear canal should be clean and dry before using this medication.For accuracy and to avoid contamination, have another person insert the drops if possible. Before using, hold the container in your hand for a few minutes in order to warm it. This will minimize dizziness.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.When treating middle ear infections in children with ear tubes, the child should lie down with the treated ear upward. Hold the dropper directly over the ear, and place the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal. Next gently press down 5 times in a pumping motion on the cartilage that partially covers the opening to the ear. This will allow the medicine to pass through the tube in the eardrum and into the middle ear. Keep the head tilted with the treated ear upward for at least 1 minute or insert a soft cotton plug if so directed.When treating outer ear infections, the patient should lie down with the treated ear upward. Hold the dropper directly over the ear, and place the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal. While placing the drops into the ear of an adult, the earlobe should be gently pulled up and back to allow the drops to flow down into the ear canal. For children, gently pull the earlobe down and back. Keep the head tilted with the treated ear upward for at least 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 using it for the full time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping this medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 7 days of treatment. Report any fluid you find in the ear after treatment is completed.Do not use in the eye.
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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