From the FDA Drug Label
Ciprofloxacin otic solution, 0.2% should be given 2 times each day (about 12 hours apart) in each infected ear. The dosing for Ciprodex (Ciprofloxacin) otic solution is 2 times a day, with approximately 12 hours apart in each infected ear 1.
- The patient should use it as long as it is prescribed, even if the symptoms improve.
- It's essential to follow the provided directions while on ciprofloxacin otic solution, 0.2%.
From the Research
Ciprodex Otic (ciprofloxacin 0.3% and dexamethasone 0.1%) is typically dosed as 4 drops instilled into the affected ear(s) twice daily for 7 days. For children and adults with acute otitis media with tympanostomy tubes or acute otitis externa, this standard dosing applies. Before administration, warm the bottle in your hands for 1-2 minutes to avoid dizziness from cold solution. The patient should lie with the affected ear upward, pull the outer ear gently to straighten the ear canal, instill the drops, and remain in this position for 30-60 seconds. After instillation, press on the tragus (the small projection in front of the ear canal) several times to help the medication penetrate deeper. Ciprodex combines ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic that kills bacteria causing the infection, with dexamethasone, a steroid that reduces inflammation and associated symptoms like pain and swelling. Complete the full course even if symptoms improve before finishing treatment to ensure complete eradication of the infection, as supported by studies such as 2 and 3. It's worth noting that the use of topical ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone has been shown to be effective and well-tolerated in the treatment of ear infections, with minimal risk of systemic side effects or ototoxicity, as discussed in 4, 5, and 6. However, the most recent and highest quality study, 3, provides the strongest evidence for the dosing and efficacy of Ciprodex Otic. Key points to consider when prescribing Ciprodex Otic include:
- The importance of completing the full treatment course to ensure complete eradication of the infection
- The potential for fewer adverse effects compared to oral antibiotics, such as amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, as shown in 3
- The effectiveness of Ciprodex Otic in treating acute otitis media with otorrhea through tympanostomy tubes, as demonstrated in 3