Colistin; Hydrocortisone; Neomycin; Thonzonium Otic Drops

What is this medicine?

COLISTIN; HYDROCORTISONE; NEOMYCIN; and THONZONIUM (koe LISS tin; HIGH droe core tih sone; NEE oh MY sin; thahn-ZOE-nee-uhm) is used to treat ear infections.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the ears. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Clean your ear of any fluid that can be easily removed. Gently warm the bottle by holding it in the hand for 1 to 2 minutes. Lie down on your side with the infected ear facing upward. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your ear, fingertips, or other surface. Instill the correct number of drops in the ear. Stay in this position for 5 minutes 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 1 year for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

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

• rash

• red, itchy, dry scaly skin at the affected site

• trouble hearing

• 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 sensation in the ear

• burning or stinging while putting the drops in the ear

What may interact with this medicine?

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

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.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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

• hearing problems

• infection (especially a virus infection such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes)

• perforated ear drum

• an unusual or allergic reaction to colistin, hydrocortisone, neomycin, thonzonium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your ear infection does not get better within a week. Do not use longer than 10 days unless instructed by your doctor or health care professional.

If rash or allergic reaction occurs, stop use immediately and contact your physician.

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, towels, or washcloths with anyone else.