From the Research
The standard adult and pediatric dose of Ciprodex is 4 drops instilled into the affected ear(s) twice daily for 7 days, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Considerations
- Before administration, the bottle should be warmed in your hands for 1-2 minutes and shaken well.
- For proper application, the patient should lie with the affected ear upward, and after instilling the drops, remain in this position for 30-60 seconds to allow the medication to penetrate the ear canal.
- Pulling the outer ear gently upward and backward (for adults) or downward and backward (for children) helps straighten the ear canal for better medication delivery.
Mechanism of Action
- Ciprodex works by combining the antibacterial effects of ciprofloxacin to kill bacteria with the anti-inflammatory properties of dexamethasone to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Important Notes
- The full course should be completed even if symptoms improve before the treatment ends.
- The use of ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone has been demonstrated as safe and effective with regard to clinical cures and microbiological eradication of pathogens in both acute otitis externa and acute otitis media in pediatric patients with tympanostomy tubes, as shown in studies such as 2 and 1.
- However, it's essential to note that ciprofloxilo resistance has been reported, and alternative therapies may be necessary in cases of resistance, as discussed in 3.