ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
They work right in the ear, so little medicine gets into the body.
What it's used for
- Swimmer's ear (outer ear infection)
- Middle ear infections in children with ear tubes
How to take it
- Warm the bottle in your hands. Lie with the ear up, put in the drops, and stay lying for 1 minute.
- With ear tubes, pump the tragus (the flap in front of the ear) a few times.
- Use for the full course, usually 7 days.
- Keep water out of the ear during treatment.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Ear discomfort or itching
- Bad taste
Call 911Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, hives, or trouble breathing
Call your provider todayEar pain, fever, or drainage getting worse
Call your provider todaySwelling or redness spreading behind the ear
Warnings
- Don't use if you're allergic to quinolone antibiotics.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Few interactions.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Ask your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone ear drops (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.