Dexamethasone with antibacterial ear spray

About dexamethasone with antibacterial ear spray

Otitis externa is a term used for inflammation in the ear when it is confined to the ear canal and does not go further than the eardrum. It is usually due to an infection. If you get things like water, shampoo or soap in an ear then it can cause itching. If you then scratch or poke your ear, this can damage the skin in the ear canal and cause inflammation. The inflamed skin can then quickly become infected.

The brand name for dexamethasone with antibacterial ear spray is Otomize®. It contains several ingredients - dexamethasone, neomycin and acetic acid. Together, these ingredients relieve inflammation, infection, itching and pain. Otomize® spray is only available on prescription. It can be prescribed for adults and for children over 2 years of age.

Before using Otomize® ear spray

To make sure that this is the right treatment for you, before you start using the spray please make sure that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have a perforated eardrum, or if you have a grommet fitted in your ear.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to use Otomize® ear spray

• Before you start using the spray, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about the ingredients, and it will also provide you with more information on how to use the spray.

• Before you use the spray for the first time, shake the container gently and then press the pump down a number of times until you see a fine spray. Make sure that the nozzle is not directed at anyone and try not to inhale the spray as you do this.

• Use one spray three times a day into the affected ear. To do this, place the tip of the nozzle into your ear and press the pump down once. You should continue to use the spray for two days after your symptoms have gone. Do not use the spray for longer than seven days in total, unless your doctor has told you otherwise.

• If you forget to use the spray, don't worry, use it as soon as you remember and then go on as before.

• If you feel there is no improvement in your symptoms after you have used the spray for a week, stop using it and make another appointment to see your doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• You can remove the nozzle in order to clean it. When you put it back on the container, make sure that it 'clicks' back into place correctly.

• To help stop further bouts of inflammation, try not to let soap or shampoo get into your ear canal when you wash. You can do this when you have a shower by gently placing a piece of cotton wool coated in soft white paraffin (eg, Vaseline®) into your ear. Do not poke your ear with cotton buds or use the corner of a towel to dry your ears, as this may cause further inflammation.

• Do not use olive oil or any other ear drops or sprays during treatment with Otomize®, unless told to by your doctor.

• Otitis externa is more common in regular swimmers compared with non-swimmers. This is due to the water which gets into your ear canal. If it is not possible for you to avoid swimming, try to protect your ears by not submerging them in water if possible.

Can this ear spray cause problems?

You may get a slight feeling of burning or stinging when you first start using the spray. This is usually mild and soon passes. If you get a rash or if you notice any other symptoms which you think may be due to the spray, please ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice. Occasionally people can have a mild allergic reaction to the preservative in the spray.

How to store Otomize® ear spray

• The spray has an expiry of four weeks once opened. Do not keep any spray remaining after your course of treatment has finished to use at a later time.

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines