Cortisporin Otic Solution (Neomycin/Polymyxin B Sulfates/Hydrocortisone)

Do’s

• Use Cortisporin otic solution exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically 3-4 times daily.
• Ensure the ear canal is clean and dry before applying the drops.
• This medication is strictly for ear use. Avoid contact with eyes.
• If possible, have someone else administer the drops for better accuracy and to prevent touching the ear with the dropper.
• To minimize dizziness, hold the container in your hand for a few moments to warm it slightly.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the dropper.
• Shake the container well before each use.
• Lie on your side with the affected ear facing upwards.
• Hold the dropper directly over the ear and instill the prescribed number of drops.
• Gently pull the earlobe up and back for adults to facilitate the drops entering the ear canal.
• Gently push the earlobe down and back for children to guide the drops into the ear canal.
• Keep your head tilted with the treated ear upwards for 5 minutes after applying the drops. (Alternatively, use a soft cotton plug if directed by your healthcare provider.)
• If using a cotton wick, place it in the ear canal moistened with the prescribed amount of solution. Replace the wick at least daily.
• Repeat the application process for the other ear if instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Use Cortisporin otic solution regularly at designated times for maximum benefit.
• Continue using the medication for the entire prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve earlier. Stopping prematurely can lead to the recurrence of the infection.

Don'ts

• Don't deviate from your healthcare provider's recommended dosage or frequency.
• Cortisporin otic solution is not for the eyes.
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to prevent contamination.
• Always wash your hands before handling the dropper.
• Don't rinse the dropper after use.
• Don't exceed the prescribed dosage or use the medication for longer than 10 days.
• Don't tell your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens.
• Don't use the medication more often or for longer than prescribed (usually not exceeding 10 days).
• Don't touch the dropper tip to your ear, fingers, or any other surface.

Common Side Effects:

• Temporary stinging or burning of the ear for a minute or two when applied
• Itching
• Redness
• Skin rash
• Swelling

Serious Side Effects:

• Rare but serious allergic reactions, including hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Severe burning or other irritation after using the ear drops
• Sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights.
• New or worsening symptoms after prolonged or repeated use, may result in a new fungal ear infection.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Cortisporin otic solution,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have allergies to neomycin, polymyxin, hydrocortisone, other aminoglycoside antibiotics, or corticosteroids before using this medication. This medication may also contain preservatives that can cause allergic reactions.

Inform your healthcare provider about any ear problems you have, especially a perforated eardrum, middle ear infection, or viral ear infection.

This medication should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Cortisporin Otic Solution may interact with other medications you are taking. Tell your healthcare provider about all your medications and herbal products before using this medication.