Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.

This medicine should be used only in the ear. Do not put it in the eyes or nose, and do not take it by mouth. If this medicine is swallowed by accident or gets in your eyes, call your doctor right away.

It is important that the infected ear remain clean and dry. When bathing, avoid getting the infected ear wet. Avoid swimming unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.

To use the ear drops:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Hold the bottle in your hands for 1 or 2 minutes to warm the suspension. Cold drops could cause you to become dizzy.
  • Shake the bottle well before using it.
  • Lie down on your side with the infected ear facing up.
  • Drop the prescribed number of drops into the ear. Keep the ear tilted up for 60 seconds.
  • Repeat the above steps if both ears are infected.

Keep using this medicine for the full treatment time, even if you or your child feel better after the first few doses. The infection may not clear up if you stop using the medicine too soon. Do not miss any doses.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For otic dosage form (suspension):
    • For ear infections:
      • Adults and children 1 year of age and older—4 drops into the affected ear(s) two times a day for 7 days. For patients who need to use an otowick, use a starting dose of 8 drops followed by 4 drops into the affected ear(s) two times a day for 7 days.
      • Children younger than 1 year of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Keep the bottle closed when you are not using it. You may store it in the refrigerator or at room temperature, away from light and heat. Do not freeze.