Generic name: Ciprofloxacin and DexamethasoneBrand names: Ciprodex
Ciprodex is an ear drop medication used to treat middle ear infections in children ages 6 months or older who have tubes in their ears. It's also used to treat swimmer's ear—an inflammation, irritation, or infection of the outer ear and ear canal—in adults and children 6 months or older.
Ciprodex is a combination of two drugs. One is the antibiotic ciprofloxacin, which fights bacterial infections. The other is the steroid dexamethasone, which lessens inflammation.
Use Ciprodex for as long as the doctor has instructed, even if you begin to feel better. Otherwise, the infection could return.
Keep the infected ear clean and dry. Avoid getting it wet when bathing, and avoid swimming unless the doctor has instructed otherwise.
Ciprodex drops should be used in the ear only; Ciprodex is not approved for use in the eye. Administer the drops as follows:
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Ciprodex.
You should not take Ciprodex if you have ever had an allergic reaction to ciprofloxacin or a similar antibiotic. You should also avoid Ciprodex if you have had an allergic reaction to dexamethasone or a similar steroid medication.
Stop using Ciprodex at the first sign of a skin rash or other allergic reaction.
Ciprodex may cause an overgrowth of other organisms, including yeast or fungus. If your symptoms are not better after a week of treatment, contact your doctor.
At this time, there is no information on interactions between Ciprodex and other drugs. However, it's important to tell your doctor about all medication you're taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
The effects of Ciprodex during pregnancy have not been studied. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
The drugs in Ciprodex—ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone—can show up in human breast milk if the drugs are swallowed. It is not known if the amount of medication absorbed through ear drops is enough to result in detectable amounts in breast milk. The doctor may advise you stop breastfeeding until your treating with Ciprodex is finished.
ADULTS AND CHILDREN 6 MONTHS AND OLDER
The recommended dose is 4 drops in the affected ear twice a day for 7 days. Try to use Ciprodex once in the morning and once at night, about 12 hours apart.
If you suspect an overdose, or if Ciprodex is swallowed, seek emergency treatment immediately.