Ciprofloxacin; Dexamethasone ear suspension

What is this medication?

CIPROFLOXACIN; DEXAMETHASONE (sip roe FLOX a sin; dex a METH a sone) is used to treat ear infections. It also stops the swelling and itching caused by the infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ciprodex Otic

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•any other active infection

•viral ear infection

•an unusual or allergic reaction to ciprofloxacin; dexamethasone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is only for use in the ears. Wash your hands with soap and water. Do not insert any object or swab into the ear canal. Gently warm the bottle by holding it in the hand for 1 to 2 minutes. Shake the bottle immediately before using. Lie down on your side with the affected ear up. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your ear, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the bottle gently to put the prescribed number of drops in the ear canal. Stay in this position for 30 to 60 seconds to help the drops soak into the ear. Repeat the steps for the other ear if both ears are infected. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as in children 6 months of age and older for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other ear products without telling your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your ear infection does not get better in a few days. If rash or allergic reaction occurs, stop using immediately and contact your doctor or health care professional.

It is important that you keep the infected ear(s) clean and dry. When bathing, try not to get the infected ear(s) wet. Do not go swimming unless your doctor or health care professional has told you otherwise.

To prevent the spread of infection, do not share ear products or share towels and washcloths with anyone else.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

•burning, itching, and redness

•worsening ear pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•abnormal feeling in the ear

•headache

•unpleasant feeling while putting the drops in the ear

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.