Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

OFLOXACIN - EAR SOLUTION

(oh-FLOX-uh-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Floxin

Uses

This medication is used to treat external or certain middle ear infections (otitis media).

How To Use

This drug is generally used twice daily as directed. For accuracy and to avoid contamination, have another person insert the drops if possible. Hold container in the hand for a few minutes in order to warm it. This will minimize dizziness. To apply ear drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your ear or any other surface. Lie on your side or tilt the affected ear upward. Place the dropper directly over the ear and administer the prescribed number of drops. To help the drops roll into the ear (for adults) hold the earlobe up and back or (for children) hold the earlobe down and back. Keep the head tilted for about five minutes or insert a soft cotton plug if so directed. Learn proper additional technique if the infection involves the middle ear. Consult your pharmacist. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace cap after use. For best results, this medication must be used routinely as directed. Continue using it for the full time prescribed, then promptly discontinue use. Stopping this medication too soon, however, may not clear the infection and may result in a reinfection. If the infection is not improved after 1 week, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Report any ear discharge that occurs after the treatment period is completed. Not for use in the eye.

Side Effects

Mild irritation or mild discomfort in the ear may occur with use, as well as dizziness or change in taste sensation. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Very unlikely but report promptly: ringing in the ears, tingling and numbness sensation. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your entire medical history, including: other ear problems, allergies (especially drug allergies). Prolonged or repeated use of antibiotics may result in a secondary infection. Use for the prescribed period of time only. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast- feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially of: other ear drops. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

Notes

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.