Hydrocortisone and Acetic Acid

INDICATIONS AND USAGE For the treatment of superficial infections of the external auditory canal caused by organisms susceptible to the action of the antimicrobial, complicated by inflammation.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Carefully remove all cerumen and debris to allow hydrocortisone 1% and acetic acid 2% otic solution to contact infected surfaces directly. To promote continuous contact, insert a wick of cotton saturated with the solution into the ear canal; the wick may also be saturated after insertion. Instruct the patient to keep the wick in for at least 24 hours and to keep it moist by adding 3 to 5 drops of the solution every 4 to 6 hours. The wick may be removed after 24 hours but the patient should continue to instill 5 drops 3 or 4 times daily thereafter, for as long as indicated. In pediatric patients, 3 to 4 drops may be sufficient due to the smaller capacity of the ear canal.

WARNINGS Discontinue promptly if sensitization or irritation occurs.

CONTRAINDICATIONS Hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone and acetic acid otic solution or any of the ingredients; herpes simplex, vaccinia and varicella. Perforated tympanic membrane is considered a contraindication to the use of any medication in the external ear canal.

ADVERSE REACTIONS Stinging or burning may be noted occasionally; local irritation has occurred very rarely.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Acetic acid is anti-bacterial and antifungal; hydrocortisone is anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and antipruritic; propylene glycol is hydrophilic and provides a low surface tension; benzethonium chloride is a surface active agent that promotes contact of the solution with tissues.