Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B
About Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B is a prescription ear drop used to treat bacterial infections of the outer ear canal, commonly known as swimmer's ear. It works by targeting the bacteria causing the infection while reducing the painful swelling and redness in the ear. This dual action helps relieve discomfort and prevents the infection from spreading deeper.
For the best results, you must use Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B consistently and exactly as directed by your doctor, usually multiple times throughout the day. It is highly recommended to complete the full course of treatment even if your symptoms improve after a few days. Keeping your ears completely dry and clean during treatment will help the medicine work more effectively.
While most people tolerate these ear drops well, you may experience mild local side effects like temporary burning or stinging. If you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction, worsening hearing issues, or intense skin irritation, stop using the drops and contact your doctor immediately.
Do not use this medicine if you have a torn or ruptured eardrum or if you have a viral or fungal infection in your ear. Talk to your doctor before starting Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B if you have any chronic ear conditions or a history of hearing issues. Children (especially under 2 years of age) should use this medicine only under strict medical supervision, as dosing and safety require careful evaluation by a doctor.
Inform your doctor about all other ear medications you are using, as some drops may interact with Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing health conditions in elderly family members, consult your healthcare provider before application.
Uses of Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B
Medicinal Benefits
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B helps treat bacterial infections of the outer ear while providing rapid relief from throbbing pain and pressure in the ear.
Benefits may include:
- Helps treat bacterial infections of the outer ear.
- Reduces ear pain, swelling, redness, and irritation.
- Improves comfort by relieving inflammation in the ear canal.
- Supports faster healing of the infected ear.
- Helps restore normal hearing and prevent the infection from worsening or spreading.
Directions for Use
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle.
- Lie down on your side or tilt your head so that the infected ear faces upward.
- Gently pull your earlobe up and back (for adults) or down and back (for children) to straighten the ear canal.
- Hold the dropper over your ear and squeeze the exact number of drops prescribed by your doctor. Do not let the dropper tip touch your ear, fingers, or any other surface.
- Stay in this position for about 5 minutes to let the drops sink deep into the ear canal.
- Always follow your doctor's exact instructions regarding how many drops to use and how long to continue the treatment.
Storage
Side Effects of Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B
Common Side Effects (Usually mild):
- Temporary stinging, burning, or mild irritation in the ear canal immediately after use
- Slight redness inside or around the ear
- Mild itching of the ear skin
Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away):
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- New or worsening hearing loss or constant ringing in the ears
- Severe dizziness, loss of balance, or vertigo
- Extreme skin irritation, peeling, or a burning sensation that does not go away
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Check the solution before use: Inspect the ear drops before each use. Do not use them if the liquid looks cloudy, has changed colour, or contains floating particles.
- Keep the dropper clean: Do not let the dropper tip touch your ear, fingers, or any other surface. This helps keep the medicine free from germs.
- Do not use if your eardrum is damaged: Do not use these ear drops if you think you have a ruptured or perforated eardrum unless your doctor tells you to. Using them in this situation may cause serious ear damage.
- Use only for the prescribed duration: Do not use these ear drops for longer than your doctor recommends. Prolonged use may increase the risk of a fungal ear infection.
- For the ears only: Use this medicine only in your ears. Do not put it in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Drug Interactions
- Other Ear Medications (e.g., ciprofloxacin, acetic acid, clotrimazole): Avoid using other antibiotic or antifungal ear drops at the same time as Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B unless specifically advised by your doctor, as they can interfere with how this medicine is absorbed.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionNo interaction was found/established. However, It is best to avoid alcohol consumption while using medication.
Pregnancy
cautionIf you are planning to become pregnant or are already pregnant, please inform your doctor. Your doctor will prescribe if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionInform your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Your doctor will prescribe if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving
safe if prescribedHydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive or use machines.
Liver
cautionLimited information about the usage of Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B in patients with liver disease is available. Please inform your physician if you have had a liver impairment/disorder history. Your doctor will prescribe if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Kidney
cautionLimited information about the usage of Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B in patients with kidney disease is available. Please inform your physician if you have had a kidney impairment/disorder history. Your doctor will prescribe if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Children
cautionHydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B should not be used in children unless prescribed by the doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Keep your ears dry: Keep your ears completely dry throughout your treatment. Wear a well-fitting earplug or place a clean cotton ball coated with a thin layer of petroleum jelly in the outer ear while showering or bathing.
- Avoid water activities: Do not swim, dive, or take part in water sports until your doctor confirms that the infection has fully cleared.
- Do not insert objects: Avoid using cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects inside your ear, as they can push the infection deeper or damage your eardrum.
- Clean the outer ear gently: Wipe only the outside of your ear with a soft, clean, damp cloth to remove any drainage and keep the area clean.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Bacterial ear infections: An ear infection occurs when bacteria affect the middle or outer ear, leading to pain and inflammation. An ear infection occurs when the Eustachian tubes (small tubes that run from each ear to the back of the throat) become blocked or swollen. Ear infections can be painful due to inflammation and fluid build-up. Symptoms include pain or discomfort inside the ear, pus or fluid-like drainage from the ear, a feeling of pressure inside the ear, and loss of hearing.
FAQs
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B is used to treat ear infections caused by bacteria.
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B is a combination medicine that contains Neomycin, Polymyxin B and Hydrocortisone. Neomycin and polymyxin B belong to the class of medicines known as antibiotics; they work by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Hydrocortisone is a steroid medicine used to relieve the redness, itching, and swelling caused by ear infections. Together, Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B reduces redness, irritation, and discomfort of certain ear problems.
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B should not be used for longer durations unless prescribed by a doctor. If your condition does not improve despite using Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B for 2-4 weeks, consult your doctor.
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B does not help in treating eye infections. Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B is used to treat ear infections caused by bacteria.
Please do not stop using Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B without consulting your doctor on your own. Continue using Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B for as long as your doctor has prescribed it to treat your condition effectually. Do not be reluctant to speak with your doctor if you experience any difficulty while taking Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B.
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B starts working immediately; however, it might take a few days to kill the harmful bacteria. Complete the course of treatment to treat your condition effectively.
Lie down with the affected ear facing upwards. Hold the dropper over the ear and instil the prescribed number of drops. Continue to lie on your side for two minutes to allow the drops to reach the base of the ear canal.
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B can be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if advised by the doctor. Please consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B is for otic (ear) use only. Avoid touching the tip of the dropper as it may contaminate the contents. Do not swim or shower immediately immediately after using Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B.
Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B may cause side effects such as a burning sensation, irritation, itching and redness at the application site. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Store Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B at room temperature, in a dry place. Keep it out of sight and reach of children.
No, you should not use Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B if you have a torn or ruptured eardrum. Applying these drops through a damaged eardrum can cause serious pain and potential hearing damage. Talk to your doctor to find a safer alternative.
You should keep your head tilted or lie on your side for about 5 minutes after putting the drops in. This allows the medicine to flow deep into your ear canal and absorb properly. Talk to your doctor if you find this difficult.
If the drops accidentally get into your eyes, rinse them immediately and thoroughly with plenty of cool, clean water. If you experience persistent burning, redness, or changes in your vision, contact an eye doctor or seek medical help right away.
It is generally best to avoid wearing hearing aids, earplugs, or headphones while your ear infection is active and while you are using Hydrocortisone+neomycin+polymyxin B. These devices can trap moisture and bacteria, slowing down your recovery. Talk to your doctor for personalised advice.
No, you should avoid swimming, diving, and getting water inside your ear while treating an infection. Water can introduce new bacteria and wash away the medication, delaying your healing. Talk to your doctor to know when it is safe to swim again.
Instil the missed drops into your ear as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed application and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
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