Ofloxacin ear drops are an antibiotic ear medication used to treat certain bacterial ear infections. They contain ofloxacin, which belongs to a group of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones.
This medication works by stopping bacteria from multiplying and spreading. Ofloxacin ear drops are used only in the ear and should not be used in the eyes or taken by mouth.
In the US, ofloxacin ear drops may be prescribed for outer ear infections, middle ear infections in children with ear tubes, and chronic middle ear infections when there is a hole in the eardrum. Treatment depends on the type of infection, age, and medical history.
Indications for use
Ofloxacin ear drops are FDA-approved for the treatment of bacterial ear infections, including:
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Acute otitis externa, also known as swimmer’s ear, in adults and children 6 months and older
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Acute otitis media in children 1 year and older who have tympanostomy tubes, also called ear tubes
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Chronic suppurative otitis media in people 12 years and older who have a perforated eardrum
These ear drops should only be used for infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to ofloxacin. They are not used to treat viral infections, wax buildup, or ear pain that is not caused by a bacterial infection.
How it works
Ofloxacin kills bacteria by blocking enzymes that bacteria need to copy and repair their DNA. Without these enzymes, the bacteria cannot grow or survive.
Because ofloxacin ear drops are applied directly into the ear, the medicine acts mainly at the site of infection. This helps treat the infection while limiting exposure to the rest of the body.
How to use
The dose and length of treatment depend on the type of ear infection being treated.
Ofloxacin ear drops should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How to apply the drops
The bottle can be held in the hand for 1 to 2 minutes before use. This helps warm the drops and may reduce dizziness that can happen when cold liquid enters the ear.
The person receiving the drops should lie down with the affected ear facing up. After the drops are placed in the ear, this position should be kept for about 5 minutes so the medicine can reach the infected area.
For a middle ear infection with tubes or a perforated eardrum, the small flap of cartilage in front of the ear opening, called the tragus, may be gently pressed several times after applying the drops. This helps the medicine move through the ear canal and into the middle ear.
If both ears are infected, the same steps may be repeated in the other ear.
What to do if a dose is missed
If a dose is missed, it can be applied as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped.
Using extra drops to make up for a missed dose is not recommended.
Possible side effects
Ofloxacin ear drops are usually well tolerated. However, side effects can happen.
Common or possible side effects include:
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Ear discomfort
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Ear pain
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Itching in the ear
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Dizziness
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Headache
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A bitter taste in the mouth
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Nausea
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Skin rash
Some people may also have temporary irritation after the drops are applied.
Although uncommon, allergic reactions can occur. Signs may include hives, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, severe rash, or intense itching.
Medical help is needed right away if symptoms of a serious allergic reaction occur.
Contraindications for use
Ofloxacin ear drops should not be used by people who are allergic to ofloxacin or any ingredient in the medication.
They should also be avoided in people with a known allergy to other quinolone antibiotics, unless a healthcare provider determines that the benefits outweigh the risks.
Precaution measures
Ofloxacin ear drops should only be used in the ear. They should not be swallowed, injected, or placed in the eyes.
A healthcare provider should be informed if symptoms do not improve after treatment, become worse, or return after finishing the medication. Long-term or repeated antibiotic use can allow bacteria or fungi that are not sensitive to the medication to grow.
Pregnant or breastfeeding people should only use this medication if it has been prescribed by a healthcare provider. The available drug information recommends weighing the benefits and risks before use in these situations.