Ciprodex is not a standalone antibiotic—it's a combination medication that contains both an antibiotic and an anti‑inflammatory steroid.
| Component | Type | What it does |
|-----------|------|--------------|
| Ciprofloxacin | Fluoroquinolone antibiotic | Kills or stops the growth of bacteria that cause infections. |
| Dexamethasone | Corticosteroid | Reduces inflammation, itching, and swelling in the ear canal. |
What it’s used for
- Bacterial ear infections (otitis externa, otitis media with effusion) that are not caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Ciprodex isn’t effective against that strain).
- It is applied as an ear drop or a ural sponge inserted into the ear canal.
How it works
- Ciprofloxacin penetrates the ear canal and ear drum (if the drum is intact) to deliver high concentrations of antibiotic directly to the site of infection.
- Dexamethasone dampens the local inflammatory response, helping relieve pain and itching.
Typical dosage
- Usually 5–8 drops (or 1–2 ural sponges) 2–3 times per day for 3–5 days.
- The exact regimen depends on the infection’s severity, your doctor’s instructions, and whether the ear drum is intact.
Important things to know
| Topic | Details |
|-------|---------|
| Side‑effects | Common: ear irritation, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), mild vertigo, or a temporary feeling of fullness. Rare: allergic reaction, changes in hearing or balance, or more serious fluoroquinolone‑related tendon issues. |
| Precautions | - Not for Pseudomonas infections.
- Avoid use in children under 6 yrs (some formulations are not approved).
- If you have a known allergy to fluoroquinolones, avoid it.
- Do not use if you have a perforated eardrum unless your doctor specifically says it’s safe. |
| Interactions | Other topical steroids, systemic steroids, or medications that affect the central nervous system (e.g., certain antidepressants) can interact. |
| Storage | Keep at room temperature, away from light and moisture. |
Bottom line
Ciprodex is a combination ear drop that contains an antibiotic (ciprofloxacin) and a steroid (dexamethasone). It’s prescribed to treat bacterial ear infections that are not caused by Pseudomonas. If you suspect you have an ear infection, a healthcare provider can decide whether Ciprodex (or another treatment) is right for you.