DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Acetic Acid; Hydrocortisone Ear Solution

July 17, 2018

Acetic Acid; Hydrocortisone Ear Solution

What is this medicine?

ACETIC ACID; HYDROCORTISONE (a SEE tik AS id; hye droe KOR ti sone) is used to treat outer ear infections.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine 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 doctor or health care professional. 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 medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your 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 3 years of age and older 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:

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

  • burning 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):

  • unpleasant feeling 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 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.

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

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 acetic acid, hydrocortisone, propylene glycol, 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 in a few days. If a rash or allergic reaction occurs, stop using this product right away 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.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018