Ciprofloxacin with Fluocinolone Acetonide (Cetraxal Plus) Ear Drops

Most patients notice improvement within 24-48 hours of starting Cetraxal Plus ear drops treatment. However, complete resolution of symptoms typically takes 7-10 days of consistent use. The antibiotic component starts working immediately against bacteria, while the anti-inflammatory effects help reduce pain and swelling within the first day or two. It’s crucial to complete the full course of ear drops even if symptoms improve earlier to prevent recurrent infections.

Store your Cetraxal Plus ear drops at room temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use and store it in a dry place such as a medicine cabinet. Avoid storing these ear drops in bathrooms or other humid areas. Always check the expiration date before use and dispose of any unused medication after completing your treatment course or if the solution changes colour or consistency.

Cetraxal Plus ear drops should be returned to any community pharmacy for safe disposal, as community pharmacy owners are obliged to accept back unwanted medicines from patients. The drops should be returned in their original packaging to ensure proper identification and handling as pharmaceutical waste, which must be disposed of in a safe and secure manner in accordance with NHS England guidance. Do not dispose of these antibiotic ear drops in household waste or pour them down drains, as this can contribute to antimicrobial resistance in the environment. Community pharmacies have arrangements with licensed waste contractors who collect pharmaceutical waste at regular intervals for proper incineration, ensuring environmental protection and compliance with UK waste regulations. If you have any concerns about disposal or need to find your nearest participating pharmacy, contact your local NHS services or visit the NHS website for guidance.

After applying ear drops, avoid getting water in the treated ear for at least 30 minutes to prevent diluting the medication. Don’t use cotton swabs or insert any objects into the ear canal, as this can push infection deeper or damage delicate ear structures. Avoid lying on the treated ear immediately after application, and don’t engage in swimming or water activities during your treatment course. Also avoid using other ear medications or cleaning products unless specifically approved by your healthcare provider.

These ear drops should not be used if you have a perforated eardrum unless specifically prescribed by your doctor. A perforated eardrum can allow the medication to enter the middle ear, potentially causing damage or complications. Signs of eardrum perforation include sudden hearing loss, ear pain, or discharge. If you suspect you have a perforated eardrum, consult your GP before using any ear drops to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.

Cetraxal Plus ear drops can be used in children, but the dosage and administration may differ from adults. Children’s ear infections require careful assessment by a healthcare professional. Always follow the specific dosing instructions provided by your child’s doctor or pharmacist. When administering ear drops to children, you may need assistance to keep them still, and the ear should be pulled down and back rather than up and back as with adults.

Most people can drive safely after using Cetraxal Plus ear drops, as they are applied topically and have minimal systemic effects. However, some patients may experience temporary dizziness or ear fullness immediately after application. If you experience any dizziness, balance problems, or hearing changes after using these ear drops, avoid driving until these effects subside. Always prioritise your safety and that of others on the road.

Yes, you can buy Cetraxal Plus ear drops online through e-Surgery, but they require a prescription and medical consultation first. As a registered UK online doctor and pharmacy, e-Surgery provides prescription treatments through a quick 2-minute online consultation which is reviewed by qualified UK prescribers, with fast next day delivery available. Since Cetraxal Plus contains both an antibiotic and corticosteroid, it is a prescription-only medicine that cannot be purchased without proper medical assessment of your ear infection. If you have questions about this medication or the consultation process, you can use e-Surgery’s “Ask a Pharmacist” section where you can chat, call, or email our qualified pharmacists for professional healthcare advice. For additional information about ear infections, you can also read e-Surgery’s blog articles on ear infection treatments and home remedies.

Before using any other ear treatments or medications alongside Cetraxal Plus ear drops, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Some ear cleaners, wax removal products, or other medicated ear drops may interact with this medication or reduce its effectiveness. Your doctor may recommend spacing different treatments apart or using them at different times of day to avoid potential interactions and ensure optimal treatment results.

Signs that your ear infection is improving with Cetraxal Plus ear drops include reduced pain, decreased discharge, less swelling, and gradual improvement in hearing. Most patients notice some relief within 24-48 hours of starting treatment. However, continue using the ear drops for the full prescribed duration even if symptoms improve. If you don’t see improvement after 2-3 days, or if symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Avoid getting water in the treated ear while using these ear drops. When showering, you can use a waterproof ear plug or cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly to protect the ear. Swimming should be avoided entirely during treatment, as pool water can introduce new bacteria and dilute the medication. Water exposure can also wash away the ear drops before they’ve had time to work effectively against your ear infection.

The British National Formulary (BNF) provides healthcare professionals with up-to-date information about the use of medicines, including key details on prescribing and administration. For personalised advice about your specific condition or questions about the medication, you can use e-Surgery’s “Ask a Pharmacist” service where qualified pharmacists can provide professional healthcare guidance. Additionally, patient information leaflets are provided with your prescription when ordering through e-Surgery.

Avoid using cotton buds or any objects to clean inside your ears while using Cetraxal Plus ear drops. Cotton buds can push wax and debris deeper into the ear canal, potentially worsening your infection or interfering with the medication’s effectiveness. They can also damage the delicate ear canal lining. Instead, gently clean only the outer ear with a damp cloth. Allow the ear drops to do their work and let your ear’s natural cleaning process remove debris safely.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience worsening symptoms, severe pain, high fever, or hearing loss while using Cetraxal Plus ear drops. Also seek medical attention if you develop signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If your symptoms don’t improve after 48-72 hours of using the ear drops, or if you notice unusual discharge or bleeding from the ear, professional medical evaluation is needed to rule out complications or adjust your treatment plan.