The usual dose of Ciprodex for both middle and outer ear infections is 4 drops into the affected ear twice a day (about 12 hours apart) for 7 days. The person giving or using the medication should wash their hands with soap and water first. To avoid dizziness, warm the ear drops in the palm of your hand for 1 to 2 minutes before using. Shake the bottle well immediately before using. The simplest way to put drops in the ear is to lie down with the affected ear up. Drop the medication directly into the ear. You or your child should remain in that position for 60 seconds so the drops don't leak out.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you the correct method of using ear drops. The procedure is different for children than for adults. The procedure also differs whether there are tubes in the ear or not. Ciprodex is intended for use only as ear drops. Do not apply Ciprodex to your eyes.
It is important to use Ciprodex exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Continue using Ciprodex for the period of time prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better. Stopping the medication too early may cause the bacteria to return and be harder to treat. If there is no improvement in the infection after you have been using the medication for one week, contact your doctor.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store Ciprodex at room temperature, protect it from light, and keep it out of the reach of children. After treatment has finished, safely discard any remaining drops in the dropper bottle. Do not keep any leftover medication for future use.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.