Why is this medication prescribed?

Cortisporin Otic Solution is typically prescribed for treating outer ear infections. This medication is a combination of antibiotics (neomycin and polymyxin B) and a steroid (hydrocortisone), which work together to reduce inflammation and fight bacterial infections in the ear canal.

How should this medicine be used?

When using Cortisporin Otic Solution, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Here are general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage and duration of treatment. Typically, Cortisporin Otic Solution is used 3 to 4 drops into the affected ear(s) three to four times daily.
• Administration:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before using the medication.
  • Shake the bottle well before using.
  • Tilt your head or lie down with the affected ear facing upward.
  • Gently pull the earlobe up and back for adults (or down and back for children) to straighten the ear canal.
  • Hold the dropper directly over the ear and place the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal.
  • Keep the head tilted for about a minute to allow the drops to penetrate deep into the ear canal.
• After use: If both ears are affected, repeat the process for the other ear if directed by your doctor. Avoid touching the dropper tip to the ear or any other surface to prevent contamination.
• Storage: Store the bottle tightly closed at room temperature. Avoid freezing. Keep out of reach of children.
• Duration of treatment: Use Cortisporin Otic Solution for the full prescribed length of time, even if symptoms improve. Stopping treatment too early may allow the infection to persist or worsen.
• Precautions: Tell your doctor about any allergies to medications, especially if you have a history of reactions to neomycin, polymyxin B, or corticosteroids. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using this medication.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may want to monitor your response to the treatment, especially if there are concerns about bacterial resistance or the potential for steroid side effects.

Always use Cortisporin Otic Solution exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about its use, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

Cortisporin Otic Solution is primarily used for treating outer ear infections (otitis externa), but it may also have other off-label uses as directed by a healthcare provider. These uses might include certain types of middle ear infections (otitis media) or as a preventive measure against infection after ear surgery.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Cortisporin Otic Solution:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any ingredients in Cortisporin Otic Solution, particularly neomycin, polymyxin B, or corticosteroids like hydrocortisone. Allergic reactions could range from mild itching or rash to more severe symptoms.
• Medical History: Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially any history of ear problems (such as perforated eardrum), recent ear surgery, or ongoing ear drainage. These conditions may affect the safety or effectiveness of using Cortisporin Otic Solution.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Cortisporin Otic Solution with your doctor. While it is generally considered safe when used as directed, caution is advised and it should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare provider.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are currently using, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Certain medications may interact with Cortisporin Otic Solution, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as itching, redness, irritation, or burning in the ear canal. These are usually mild and temporary, but if they persist or worsen, contact your doctor promptly. Prolonged use of corticosteroids in the ear may also lead to fungal infections or other complications.
• Use as Directed: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and duration of treatment. Using Cortisporin Otic Solution longer than prescribed or more frequently than recommended can increase the risk of side effects and antibiotic resistance.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may want to monitor your response to the treatment, especially if you are using Cortisporin Otic Solution for an extended period or if there are concerns about bacterial resistance or steroid side effects.
• Storage: Store Cortisporin Otic Solution at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding the use of Cortisporin Otic Solution, especially if you have any concerns or questions about its suitability or potential risks in your specific case.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary instructions associated with Cortisporin Otic Solution. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a healthy diet and hydration, which can support overall health and aid in recovery from infections.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use a dose of Cortisporin Otic Solution, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cortisporin Otic Solution, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Local Irritation: Temporary burning, stinging, itching, or redness at the site of application (inside the ear).
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
• Ear Discomfort: Some people may experience temporary discomfort or pain in the ear after applying the drops.
• Changes in Taste: A temporary change in taste sensation may occur.
• Hearing Problems: In rare cases, Cortisporin Otic Solution may cause temporary hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). If these symptoms occur, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.
• Other Systemic Effects: While rare, excessive use of Cortisporin Otic Solution or absorption of the medication through the ear canal into the bloodstream could potentially lead to systemic effects associated with corticosteroids and antibiotics, such as adrenal gland suppression or antibiotic resistance.

It’s essential to use Cortisporin Otic Solution exactly as prescribed and to report any unusual or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help determine whether the side effect is related to the medication and provide appropriate guidance. If you experience any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Cortisporin Otic Solution:

• Storage: Store Cortisporin Otic Solution at room temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Avoid freezing. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired Cortisporin Otic Solution according to local regulations or guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
  • If unsure about how to dispose of the medication, consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider for proper disposal instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: In case of accidental ingestion or overdose of Cortisporin Otic Solution, contact your local poison control center (e.g., in the United States, call 1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of overdose are not typically expected with topical ear drops like Cortisporin Otic Solution. However, if accidentally ingested in large quantities, symptoms could potentially include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, or other systemic effects. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended if ingestion occurs.

What other information should I know?

• Usage: Use Cortisporin Otic Solution exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use it in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have had any allergic reactions to antibiotics or corticosteroids in the past, as Cortisporin Otic Solution contains both.
• Follow-up: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for follow-up visits to monitor your response to treatment and ensure proper healing of the ear infection.
• Storage: Keep Cortisporin Otic Solution out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Administration: Wash hands before and after using the ear drops. Administer the drops exactly as directed, typically by tilting the head to the side and gently pulling the earlobe downward to allow the drops to enter the ear canal.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage, disposal, or usage of Cortisporin Otic Solution. They can provide specific guidance based on your individual circumstances.