Hydrocortisone; Acetic Acid Ear Solution

What is this medication?

HYDROCORTISONE; ACETIC ACID (hye droe KOR ti sone; a SEE tik AS id) treats ear infections caused by bacteria or fungus. It works by preventing the growth of bacteria and fungus. It also decreases inflammation, which can reduce pain. It will not treat infections caused by viruses.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Acetasol HC, Otomycet-HC, VoSoL HC

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

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

• Herpes infection
• Ruptured ear drum
• Vaccinia (the skin blister that occurs after a smallpox vaccine)
• An unusual or allergic reaction to hydrocortisone, acetic acid, propylene glycol, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in your ears. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands with soap and water. First, carefully clean your ear(s) with a dry cotton swab. Gently warm the bottle by holding it in the hand for 1 to 2 minutes. Use the ear solution as directed by your care team. 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, if necessary, for the opposite ear. Do not use your medication more often than directed. Finish the full course of medication prescribed by your care team even if you think your condition is better.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 3 years 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 other ear products without talking to your care team.

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 care team if your ear infection does not get better in a few days. If a rash or allergic reaction occurs, stop using this product right away and contact your care team.

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 care team 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 care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• New or worsening ear pain, redness, irritation, or discharge

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

• Itching or pain in the ear after use

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 and pets.

Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

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.