Polymyxin B ear drops are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections in the ear canal (otitis externa). This medicine cannot be used to treat ear infections caused by viruses.
Polymyxin B is a polypeptide class of antibiotics that is useful for slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria. This drug works by damaging the cell walls of bacteria so that the bacteria will die.
Polymyxin B ear drops are usually combined with other medicines that are useful for treating symptoms of ear infections, such as pain or inflammation. Medications that are commonly used with Polymyxin B ear drops include benzocaine, chloramphenicol , fludrocortisone, hydrocortisone , lidocaine, or neomycin .
Polymyxin B ear drops trademarks: ETT Plus, Otilon, Otolin, Otopain, Otozambon
What Are Polymyxin B Ear Drops
| class | Prescription drug |
| Category | Polypeptide class of antibiotics |
| Benefit | Treating external ear infections or otitis externa |
| Used by | Adults and children |
| Polymyxin B ear drops for pregnant and lactating women |
Category C: Studies in animals have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women.
Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is not yet known whether polymyxin B ear drops are absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medication without telling your doctor. |
| Drug form | Ear drops |
Warning Before Using Polymyxin B Ear Drops
Polymyxin B ear drops should not be used carelessly. Before you use polymyxin B ear drops, pay attention to the following points:
- Do not use polymyxin B ear drops if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about your allergic history.
- Tell your doctor if you have had or currently have any other ear problems, such as a perforated eardrum or a middle ear infection ( otitis media ).
- Do not use mixed polymyxin B ear drops with a corticosteroid, such as fludrocortisone or hydrocortisone, if you have chickenpox, herpes , or measles .
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking other medications, especially if these drugs will be used on the ear area to be treated, to anticipate drug interactions.
- Tell your doctor about all medications you are using, including polymyxin B ear drops, before having surgery.
- Immediately consult a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction or serious side effects after using polymyxin B ear drops.
Dosage and Rules for Use Polymyxin B Ear Drops
Common doses of polymyxin B ear drops to treat outer ear infections are:
- Adult: 4–5 drops, 3–4 times daily.
- Children: 3 drops, 3–4 times daily.
The dosage of polymyxin B ear drops can vary, according to the severity of the infection and the drug preparation. Follow the dosage of the drug recommended by the doctor.
How to Use Polymyxin B Ear Drops Properly
Use polymyxin B ear drops according to doctor 's instructions or instructions for use listed on the drug packaging. Use this medication regularly and do not increase or decrease your dose without consulting your doctor first.
Wash your hands and then shake the medicine before using polymyxin B ear drops. This drug is used by dripping directly into the ear canal.
To keep the ear canal in a straight position, lie on your side with the affected ear facing up. Pull the earlobe back up for adults, or back down for children.
Drop the medicine into the ear canal and don't move from that position for 5 minutes. Make sure the tip of the medicine bottle is not touching anything. When finished, close the medicine bottle tightly.
If you forget to use polymyxin B ear drops, use this medicine immediately if the break with the next scheduled use is not too close. If it is close, ignore the dose and do not double the next dose.
Do not stop using polymyxin B ear drops suddenly. This can increase the risk of the infection coming back and being more difficult to treat. Keep using this medicine according to the length of treatment prescribed by the doctor even though your complaints have improved.
Polymyxin B ear drops should only be used in the ear area. Avoid contact between these drugs with the eyes, inside the mouth, or inside the nose. If the area is accidentally exposed to the drug, clean it immediately and rinse it under running water. If the drug is accidentally swallowed, contact a doctor immediately.
Call your doctor if your condition does not improve after using polymyxin B ear drops for 7 days, or if your condition worsens. Do not use polymyxin B ear drops for more than 10 days.
Store polymyxin B ear drops in the refrigerator or in a room temperature place that is protected from direct sunlight. Keep this drug out of reach of children.
Polymyxin B Ear Drops Interaction with Other Drugs
If used according to the directions for use, polymyxin B ear drops rarely cause serious drug interactions.
This drug has the potential to increase the risk of respiratory problems if used with muscle relaxants , such as rocuronium, which are usually used during surgery. However, this interaction is only possible if polymyxin B ear drops are used in large quantities and enter the bloodstream.
Polymyxin B Ear Drops Side Effects and Dangers
Side effects that can arise after using polymyxin B ear drops are a stinging or burning feeling in the ear for 1–2 minutes. Consult a doctor if these side effects do not improve or get worse.
Immediately see a doctor if an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects occur, such as swelling, pain, itching, or a red rash on the inside of the ear or around the ear.