Ciprodex Otic Suspension

(Ciprofloxacin/Dexamethasone)

The active ingredients in Ciprodex are ciprofloxacin hydrochloride and dexamethasone. Ciprofloxacin belongs to a class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones. These antibiotics work against a number of different bacteria to effectively treat various infections. Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid medication. These drugs help to curb inflammation in the body, which can help in controlling inflammation-related symptoms of infections.

AOM is commonly due to bacterial species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

On the other hand, AOE is most commonly due to Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Ciprodex. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Ciprodex:

• Ciprodex should be used exactly as prescribed. Ciprodex is for use in the ears only. Do not inject drops or insert them into the eye.
• The general regimen for most people with ear infections is 4 drops in the affected ear 2 times a day for 7 days. Do not touch the dropper to the ear to keep the tip sterile. Tilt your head so the ear you are inserting the drops in is facing up, and remain that way for about 1 minute to allow the drops to fully absorb. To ensure the drops are fully absorbed, pull the ear lobe back and up to open up the ear canal. In very young pediatric patients, the ear lobe should be pulled back and down. If needed, repeat this process in the other ear.
• If you are treating a middle ear infection and have tympanostomy tubes in your eardrum, gently press the part of the ear known as the tragus to help the drops reach the middle ear. The tragus is the little flap before the ear opening.
• Ciprodex must be used for the full duration that has been prescribed unless otherwise instructed by your prescriber. Do not stop using it even if your symptoms improve.
• If your symptoms worsen or do not improve by the end of 7 days of treatment, follow up with your doctor if you have otorrhea or fluid that continues to drain from the ear despite completing treatment. Additionally, any fluid draining 2 or more times within 6 months should also be followed up on by your doctor.
• If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Ciprodex include:

• General ear discomfort or irritation, including ear pain or itching (pruritus).

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Ciprodex. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as hives, skin rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Ciprodex. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Ciprodex, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you:

• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Do not use Ciprodex if you have:

• An allergy to ciprofloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any of the other ingredients in Ciprodex.
• If you suspect your ear infection is viral or fungal, including those due to herpes simplex.

Ciprodex begins to work against the infection right after the first dose. However, it may take a few doses before you start to see improvement in the infected ear(s). Ciprodex should be used for the full duration as directed by your prescriber.

When Ciprodex is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Ciprodex otic suspension comes in bottles containing 0.3% ciprofloxacin and 0.1% dexamethasone.

Ciprodex should be stored at room temperature, away from light and heat, and out of reach of children.

Ciprodex is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Novartis Pharmaceuticals.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Ciprodex.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while using Ciprodex.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Ciprodex passes into the breastmilk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.