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Cipro HC (otic)

Generic name: ciprofloxacin and hydrocortisone (otic) [SIP-roe-FLOX-a-sin-and-HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone]
Brand name: Cipro HC
Drug class: otic steroids with anti-infectives

What is Cipro HC (otic)?

Ciprofloxacin treats infections that are caused by bacteria with an antibacterial. Hydrocortisone, is a type of steroid. It inhibits the action of chemicals that cause inflammation in the body. Cipro HC is a combination medication used to treat infections of the ear canal. Cipro HC does not treat inner ear infections, also known as otitismedia. Cipro HC can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Cipro HC (otic)

If you experience symptoms indicative of an allergic reaction, seek medical assistance immediately: hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat.

This medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Redness around or in your ears;
  • Feeling of fullness in the ear
  • Hearing problems;
  • The first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild it may be
  • After using the ear drops, you may experience severe burning or irritation.

Cipro HC side effects may include:

  • Headache;
  • Mild itching may occur after using the ear drops.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contacting the FDA in regards to side effects is easy - call them directly on 1800FDA-1088!

Similar/related drugs

Ciprofloxacin otic, Floxin otic, Cortisporin-TC, and Cortane-B

Warnings

Cipro HC should not be used if your eardrum has ruptured.

Before you take this drug

Cipro HC should not be used if:

  • A hole in the eardrum (eardrum rupture);
  • A viral disease that affects your ear canal. This includes herpes and chickenpox.

If you have an allergy to any of the antibiotics that are similar to ciprofloxacin, such as gatifloxacin or levofloxacin,

Tell your doctor of any of the following, in order to make sure this medication is suitable:

  • Severe ear pain
  • A latex allergy;
  • Hearing problems or other hearing disorders

This medication does not pose a threat to an unborn baby and you should inform your physician if you're planning or pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant. This medicine is not known to pass into breast milk. It is also unknown if this medication could harm a nursing infant. This medicine should not be taken while breastfeeding. Cipro HC is not recommended for children younger than one year of age.

How to take Cipro HC (otics)?

Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed. Please do not exceed the prescribed dosage or take for longer than suggested. Remove any earwax or other debris prior to using this medication. Ask your doctor for safe ways to remove earwax. Before each use, shake the medication well. Holding the bottle for a minute or two in your hands will warm up the medicine. Cold ear drops may cause dizziness.

How to use the eardrops:

  • If you are lying down, tilt your head upward with your ear up. When giving the medicine to a young child, gently pull your ear back or pull downward on the earlobe.
  • Drop the correct amount of drops in your ear by holding the dropper upside-down over your ear.
  • For 30–60 seconds, lie down with your head tipped back. Use a piece of cotton to block the ear canal and prevent the medication from draining.

Avoid touching the tip of the dropper or placing it directly into your ears. It could become contaminated. Do not use soap or water to wash the tip. Instead, wipe it with a tissue. Do not stop taking the medicine before it is completely cleared. You may experience improvement in your symptoms before the infection has completely resolved. You may increase your chances of a second infection resistant to anti-biotics if you skip doses. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience new symptoms, call your doctor. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. After your treatment, throw away any medicine that you have not used.

What happens if I miss the dose?

As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdoses of Cipro HC are not dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

The medicine should only be used in the ears. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, eyes, or lips. If this medicine has gotten into or on any of these areas, rinse with water. You should only use this medication unless you have been prescribed it by your doctor.

Interaction with other drug

Cipro HC is unlikely to interact with other drugs that you may take orally or even inject. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about any medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.