Generic name:
Ciprofloxacin solution - otic
Pronunciation
(SIP-roe-FLOX-a-sin)
Brand name(s)
Cetraxal
Generic name:
Ciprofloxacin solution - otic
Pronunciation
(SIP-roe-FLOX-a-sin)
Brand name(s)
Cetraxal
Ciprofloxacin is used to treat bacterial ear infections (swimmer's ear or ear canal infections). It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics.
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.
Learn all preparation and usage instructions before using this medication. For accuracy and to avoid contamination, have another person give the drops if possible. Hold the container in your hand for a few minutes to warm it. This will minimize dizziness. Wash your hands before opening/using the medication. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your ear or any other surface.
Use this medication in the infected ear as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (every 12 hours) for 7 days. Use in the ear only. Do not use in the eyes, inject, or inhale the medication.
Lie on your side or tilt your head with the ear to be treated facing upward. Hold the container directly over the ear, and empty the contents of the single-use container into the ear canal. While placing the solution 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. Discard any unused solution after each application. Do not reuse.
Repeat the above steps for the other ear if so directed.
Use this medication regularly 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.
Inform your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse after 7 days of treatment.
Discomfort, pain, or itching in the ear may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify 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 bacterial/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:
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 it or to other quinolone antibiotics (such as ofloxacin, levofloxacin), 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.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if ciprofloxacin in this ear drop passes into breast milk. 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.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. 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.
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. Do not freeze. Keep the medication in the original pouch to protect from light. 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.
HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Information last revised July 2024.
Copyright(c) 2024 First Databank, Inc.
Selected from NATIONAL DRUG DATA FILE (NDDF) data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc., 2019. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider.
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your health care professional. You should consult your health care professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.