Kids Channel
Topics
Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Middle Ear Infection Cipro
Ciprofloxacin ear drops (Cetraxal®) are mainly used for the treatment of external ear infections -- this type of infection is also known as otitis externa, or "swimmer's ear." The drops are specifically used to treat outer ear infections caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus.
However, in some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe this drug for a condition it is not licensed to treat. This is known as an "off-label" use. With ciprofloxacin ear drops, the medication is occasionally prescribed for middle ear infections (otitis media). This type of infection occurs behind the eardrum; otitis externa affects the outer ear and ear canal.
(To learn more, click What Are Ciprofloxacin Ear Drops Used For?. This article discusses how the medication works, whether it can be used in children, and more.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD



