Hydrocortisone, Neomycin & Polymyxin Ear Drops

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About hydrocortisone, neomycin & polymyxin ear drops

This belongs to the group of medicines known as anti-inflammatory ear preparations.

This preparation is used to treat otitis externa (inflammation of the skin lining the ear), particularly when complicated by a bacterial infection.

This preparation contains three ingredients, hydrocortisone 1%, neomycin 3,400units and polymyxin B sulphate 10,000units/ml.

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid used to relieve any inflammation, itching and pain you may be experiencing. neomycin and polymyxin B sulphate are antibacterial agents and act by killing the bacteria responsible for causing the infection.

It is also sometimes known as: Otosporin. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using hydrocortisone, neomycin & polymyxin ear drops

Before using any of this preparation make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant or breast-feeding
• if you have a perforated ear drum
• if you have an untreated infection
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or a similar medicine
• if you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to use hydrocortisone, neomycin & polymyxin ear drops.

Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet before beginning treatment.

1. Clean the ear with warm water (do NOT use soap) and dry thoroughly, wash your hands.
2. Gently shake the bottle.
3. Remove the outer cap.
4. Lie down or tilt the head so that the affected ear faces up.
5. Gently pull the earlobe to straighten the ear canal.
6. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the ear, try not to touch the inside of the ear.
7. Apply enough pressure to the container to release three drops.
8. Keep the ear facing up for a few minutes to allow the solution to come into contact with the affected area.
9. Repeat in the other ear if you have been instructed to use these drops in both ears.
10. Replace the outer cap on the container.
11. Wash your hands.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Use this preparation three to four times a day or as directed by your doctor.
• If you find it more comfortable, you may warm the ear-drops to body temperature by holding the bottle of drops in your hand for a few minutes before instilling into the ear.
• Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, then apply the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If your symptoms do not improve within seven days or if they become worse, make an appointment to see your doctor.
• Do not use this preparation more often, or for a longer period, than your doctor has directed you to.
• This preparation is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• This preparation is for external use only. If you suspect someone has swallowed any of this medicine, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Can hydrocortisone, neomycin & polymyxin ear drops cause problems?

You may experience a mild burning or stinging sensation in the ear when you first start using this preparation. If this becomes severe or if you notice any worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store hydrocortisone, neomycin & polymyxin ear drops

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store in a fridge.
• Discard this preparation four weeks after opening
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely, out of the reach of children, or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 14/03/2006   

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