From the Research
Yes, ciprofloxacin (Cipro) ear drops can be given simultaneously with oral Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) for a patient with chronic suppurative otitis media and a sore throat. The typical regimen would be ciprofloxacin 0.3% otic solution, 3-4 drops in the affected ear(s) twice daily for 7-10 days, along with Augmentin, commonly dosed at 875/125 mg twice daily for adults or 45 mg/kg/day divided into two doses for children, for 10-14 days. These medications work well together because they target different aspects of the infection - the ear drops provide direct topical antibiotic treatment to the infected ear, while Augmentin treats both the throat infection and provides systemic coverage for the ear infection. This combination is particularly effective because ciprofloxacin ear drops penetrate well into the middle ear fluid and are active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common pathogen in chronic ear infections, while Augmentin covers many respiratory pathogens that could be causing the sore throat, as shown in a study comparing topical ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone to oral amoxicillin/clavulanic acid in children with acute otitis media with otorrhea through tympanostomy tubes 1. Before administering ear drops, the ear canal should be gently cleaned of any discharge, and the patient should lie with the affected ear upward for 3-5 minutes after application to ensure proper distribution of the medication. Key points to consider include:
- The efficacy of ciprofloxacin in treating chronic suppurative otitis media, as demonstrated in studies such as the one published in the journal Harefuah 2 and another in Archives of otolaryngology--head & neck surgery 3.
- The importance of choosing an antibiotic regimen that covers the most likely pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is commonly found in chronic ear infections, as noted in a study published in Chemotherapy 4.
- The potential benefits of using topical antibiotic therapy, such as ciprofloxacin ear drops, in conjunction with systemic antibiotics, like Augmentin, to provide comprehensive coverage and minimize the risk of treatment failure or complications, as suggested by a study in Pediatrics 1. It is also worth noting that oral ciprofloxacin has been used effectively in the management of chronic suppurative otitis media in children, as reported in The Pediatric infectious disease journal 5.