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Acetic acid/hydrocortisone (Into the ear)

Introduction:

Acetic Acid (a-SEE-tik AS-id), Hydrocortisone (hye-droe-KOR-ti-sone)

Treats ear infections.

Brand Name(s):

Acetasol Hc, Vosol HC, Acetasol HC, Oticot Hc

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in this product, or if you have vaccinia (cowpox), chickenpox, or a punctured eardrum.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Drop

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often.
  • Use in the ear only.
  • Your doctor may insert a wick soaked with the medicine into your ear.
  • Leave the wick in your ear for 24 hours (or as your doctor has ordered).
  • Keep the wick moist by adding 3 to 5 drops of medicine every 4 to 6 hours.
  • Your doctor may want you to continue to use the eardrops after you take the wick out of your ear.
  • To put in the eardrops: Wash your hands. Lie down or tilt your head to the side.
  • Straighten the ear canal by gently pulling the earlobe up and back for adults; for children, pull the earlobe down and back.
  • Drop the prescribed number of drops into the ear.
  • Do not touch the dropper to the ear or to anything else.
  • Keep the ear tilted up for a few minutes or insert a cotton plug into the ear.
  • Wash your hands afterwards to avoid spreading the infection.
  • Do not get this medicine in your eyes.

If a dose is missed:

  • Apply the dose as soon as possible.
  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
  • Do not apply two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store in a closed container at room temperature, protect from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
  • Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Check with your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Call your doctor if the infection does not get better after a few days.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Ear pain, redness, or swelling that was not there before using the medicine.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Burning, itching, dryness in the ear.
  • Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010
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