Ciprodex

Generic name: Ciprofloxacin and DexamethasoneBrand names: Ciprodex

Why is Ciprodex prescribed?

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.

Most important fact about Ciprodex

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.

How should you take Ciprodex?

Ciprodex drops should be used in the ear only; Ciprodex is not approved for use in the eye. Administer the drops as follows:

1. Wash hands with soap and water.
2. Clean the outer ear of any discharge.
3. Warm the bottle in your hand for 1 to 2 minutes before using. This will prevent a sense of dizziness that can result from putting a cold solution into the ear.
4. Have the person receiving the drops lie on his or her side with the affected ear up.
5. Shake the solution well and place 4 drops into the affected ear. Be careful not to let the tip of the bottle touch your fingers, the person's ear, or any other surface.
6. If a child receiving the medication has tubes in the ear, gently press on the small, thick flap that sticks out over the ear canal 5 times in a pumping motion. This allows the drops to pass through the tube into the eardrum and middle ear.
7. If the person receiving the medication has an outer ear infection (swimmer's ear), gently pull the ear upward and backward. This allows the drops to flow down into the ear canal.
8. The person should remain lying with the ear up for at least 1 minute. If both ears are affected, repeat the procedure on the other side.
9. Throw away any leftover medication.

• If you miss a dose...Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature and protect from light.

What side effects may occur?

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.

• Side effects may include:Ear pain or discomfort, itching in the ear

Why should Ciprodex not be prescribed?

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.

Special warnings about Ciprodex

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.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Ciprodex

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.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

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.

Recommended dosage for Ciprodex

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.

Overdosage

If you suspect an overdose, or if Ciprodex is swallowed, seek emergency treatment immediately.