Why is this medication prescribed?

Ciprodex is prescribed primarily for treating infections in the ears. It is specifically used to treat acute otitis externa (swimmer’s ear) and acute otitis media with tympanostomy tubes (middle ear infection in patients with tubes in their eardrums).

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for using Ciprodex:

• Dosage: The usual dosage is 4 drops in the affected ear(s) twice daily for 7 days.
• Administration:
  • Before using Ciprodex, clean the outer ear gently.
  • Warm the bottle in your hand for 1 to 2 minutes before use (to avoid dizziness from the cold drops).
  • Tilt your head to the side or lie down with the affected ear facing up.
  • 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 into the ear.
• Precautions:
  • Do not touch the dropper tip to the ear or any other surface to avoid contamination.
  • Avoid swimming unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise, as water in the ears can affect treatment effectiveness.
  • Do not use Ciprodex if there is a hole or tube in the eardrum unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.
  • Use Ciprodex exactly as prescribed. Do not stop using it early even if you feel better unless directed by your doctor.
• Side Effects:
  • Common side effects may include ear discomfort or itching, headache, ear congestion, and earache.
  • Contact your doctor if you experience severe burning, itching, redness, swelling, or any signs of a new ear infection.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Ciprodex for complete information on usage, precautions, and potential side effects.

Other uses for this medicine

• Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media: Ciprodex may be used in some cases of chronic suppurative otitis media, which is a chronic inflammation of the middle ear with discharge.
• Otitis Media without Tubes: It may be prescribed off-label for acute otitis media in patients without tympanostomy tubes, although other treatments are generally preferred.
• Otitis Media with Perforated Eardrum: In some cases, Ciprodex might be considered for treating otitis media when there is a perforation (hole) in the eardrum, though caution is advised.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Ciprodex:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have allergies to any medications, especially to antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin) or corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone), as Ciprodex contains both.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Ciprodex in these situations is not well established.
• Hearing Loss: Ciprodex should be used cautiously in patients with a history of ear problems or hearing loss.
• Superinfection: Prolonged use of antibiotics such as Ciprodex can result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs, discontinue use and institute alternative therapy.
• Adverse Reactions: Monitor for adverse reactions such as itching, rash, redness, swelling, or severe ear pain. Discontinue use and consult your doctor if these symptoms occur.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as any herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Ciprodex, potentially affecting its effectiveness or causing side effects.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and the medication guide provided with Ciprodex. Use the medication exactly as prescribed and do not share it with others. If you have any questions or concerns about using Ciprodex, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Ciprodex. It can be taken with or without food.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use Ciprodex at the scheduled time, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ciprodex, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone using it will experience them. Some common and less common side effects of Ciprodex include:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Ear discomfort or pain
  • Ear itching
  • Headache
  • Ear congestion
  • Earache
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Irritation or redness at the application site
  • Rash
  • Allergic reactions such as itching, swelling, or severe dizziness
  • Unusual taste in the mouth
• Serious Side Effects (Rare):
  • Severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) – seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
  • New ear infection or worsening of existing ear infection
  • Perforation (hole) in the eardrum, particularly with prolonged use or improper use

It’s important to note that this is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while using Ciprodex, contact your doctor or healthcare provider promptly for further evaluation and guidance.

Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist regarding the use of Ciprodex, and report any concerns or adverse reactions to your healthcare provider.

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

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store Ciprodex at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Protect from light.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Ciprodex in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
• Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider about the best way to dispose of unused medicine.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call emergency services immediately (911 in the US).
• For accidental ingestion or misuse of Ciprodex, contact a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or your local emergency services.

What other information should I know?

• Handling: Wash your hands before and after using Ciprodex to prevent contamination.
• Avoiding Contamination: Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including the ear, to avoid contamination of the solution.
• Follow Instructions: Use Ciprodex exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use more or less than recommended, or for longer than prescribed.
• Medical Monitoring: Your doctor may need to monitor your condition periodically to assess the effectiveness of Ciprodex and check for side effects.
• Avoid Contact with Eyes: Ciprodex is for use in the ears only. Avoid getting it into your eyes. If accidental eye contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

It’s essential to follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective use of Ciprodex. If you have any questions or concerns about storage, disposal, emergency procedures, or any other aspect of using Ciprodex, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.