Dosage of OTOMED EAR DROPS

OTOMED EAR DROPS is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).

Take as directed by the pharmacist or physician.

The typical dosage is 4-5 drops, 2-4 times daily, depending on the severity of the infection and the specific variant prescribed.

Proper Administration

• Route: Topical (instillation into the ear canal).
• How to Use:
  1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
  2. Warm the bottle slightly by holding it in your hand for a minute (do not heat).
  3. Lie on your side or tilt your head so the affected ear is facing upward.
  4. Instill the prescribed number of drops directly into the external ear canal.
  5. For adults, pull the earlobe up and back. For children, pull the earlobe down and back.
  6. Keep the head tilted for at least 2 minutes to allow the drops to penetrate. A soft cotton plug may be inserted if directed by your doctor.
• Timing: Apply 2 to 4 times daily, ensuring consistent spacing between doses.

Missed Dose Guidance

• If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose.

Contraindications of OTOMED EAR DROPS

Do NOT use OTOMED EAR DROPS if the patient:

• Has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to any of the specific antibiotics (like Neomycin/Ofloxacin), steroid, or local anaesthetic/antifungal components.
• Has a perforated eardrum, as this increases the risk of the drug passing into the middle ear and causing irreversible ototoxicity (hearing damage), especially from aminoglycosides (like Neomycin).
• Has viral infections of the external ear canal (e.g., Herpes Simplex), as steroids can worsen viral infections.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warnings

• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor. Use of this multi-component drug (especially those containing aminoglycosides like Neomycin, or systemic Ofloxacin) is generally not recommended in pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of foetal toxicity (e.g., irreversible hearing damage). Use only if clearly needed and directed by a physician.
• Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. The active ingredients may pass into breast milk. Use only when advised by a healthcare professional.

Side Effects of OTOMED EAR DROPS

Side effects are generally localized but can be serious if the eardrum is perforated.

• Common Side Effects (Mild and Expected): Mild and temporary irritation, itching, or a tingling sensation in the ear immediately after administration.
• Serious but Rare Side Effects (that may require medical attention):
  • Ototoxicity (Hearing Damage): The main risk with Neomycin/Polymyxin B, especially with prolonged use or perforated eardrums, leading to irreversible partial or total deafness.
  • Allergic Reactions: Severe rash, swelling of the face, or difficulty breathing.
  • Local Superinfection: Overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms.

What to do if side effects occur:

• If hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), severe dizziness, or any sign of an allergic reaction occurs, stop the medication immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
• If irritation persists, consult your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings of OTOMED EAR DROPS

• Eardrum Status: CRUCIAL WARNING: This medicine should only be used after a doctor has confirmed the eardrum is intact (not perforated). If perforation is known or suspected, the risk of ototoxicity is very high.
• Duration of Use: Do not use for prolonged periods (e.g., longer than 7-10 days) to minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance and ototoxicity, unless specifically directed by a doctor.
• External Use Only: Use only in the ear; not suitable for use in the eye.
• Contamination: Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, the ear, or your hands, to avoid contamination of the solution.
• Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with impaired renal (kidney) function, as neomycin clearance may be reduced.

The drops are a multi-component formulation, typically containing a steroid (e.g., Fludrocortisone), two antibiotics (e.g., Neomycin, Polymyxin B) and a local anaesthetic (Lidocaine) OR an antibiotic (Ofloxacin), steroid (Beclometasone), and antifungal (Clotrimazole). It is supplied as an otic solution in a small dropper bottle (e.g., 5 mL or 8 mL). It is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).