This dexamethasone neomycin ear spray is a 5ml treatment for otitis externa, an inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal. It contains dexamethasone 0.1%, neomycin 0.5% and acetic acid (glacial) 2%. It is the generic equivalent of Otomize, which has been discontinued, and provides the same active ingredients at the same strengths.
What it contains
- Dexamethasone 0.1%, a steroid that reduces inflammation, swelling and itching
- Neomycin 0.5%, an antibiotic that treats bacterial infection
- Acetic acid (glacial) 2%, which lowers the pH of the ear canal to discourage bacteria and fungi
What it treats
Prescribers use this spray to treat otitis externa. Symptoms often include ear pain, itching, redness, discharge and a feeling of fullness. Because the spray works directly in the ear canal, it targets the affected area.
Using this dexamethasone neomycin ear spray
Always follow the directions from your prescriber and the patient information leaflet. Typically, you use one spray into the affected ear three times a day. The leaflet also explains how to prime and position the bottle, so it is worth reading before you start.
Important safety information
This is a prescription only medicine, so our prescriber will check that it is suitable for you before we supply it. Do not use it if your eardrum is perforated, unless a clinician advises otherwise, because neomycin can affect hearing. Also tell us about any allergies, other ear conditions or medicines you take. For general guidance on otitis externa, you can visit the NHS. Please read the full patient information leaflet before use.
If you previously used Otomize, this spray is a like-for-like replacement. If you are unsure whether it is right for you, our team can help.
Directions
Always use this ear spray exactly as your prescriber tells you, and read the patient information leaflet before you start. The steps below are typical, but your prescriber may advise something different.
- Before the first use, prime the pump by pressing it a few times until a fine spray appears.
- The usual dose is one spray into the affected ear three times a day.
- Gently place the nozzle into the ear canal and press once to release a single spray.
- Keep using it for two days after your symptoms clear, unless you are told otherwise.
- Do not use it for longer than advised, usually up to about a week.
- Wash your hands before and after, and avoid getting it in your eyes.
If things have not improved within a few days, or they get worse, speak to your prescriber or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Like all medicines, this ear spray can cause side effects, though not everyone gets them. Most tend to be mild and short lived.
- A brief stinging, burning or warm feeling in the ear when you apply it.
- Itching, irritation or redness in the ear canal.
- Allergic or sensitivity reactions, which can develop with ingredients such as neomycin.
- A new or fungal ear infection, which is more likely with prolonged use.
Stop using it and get advice straight away if you notice signs of an allergic reaction or any change to your hearing. You can report any suspected side effect to your pharmacist or through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
Warnings
This spray is not suitable for everyone. Tell our prescriber before use if any of the following apply to you.
- You have, or think you might have, a perforated eardrum. Neomycin can affect hearing if the eardrum is not intact, so it should only be used then on specialist advice.
- You are allergic to neomycin or other aminoglycoside antibiotics, dexamethasone, acetic acid, or any other ingredient.
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding.
- You have another ear condition, or you use other ear drops or medicines.
Use it in the ear only, and only for as long as advised, as prolonged use of a steroid and antibiotic can raise the risk of sensitivity or further infection. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. This is a prescription only medicine, so our prescriber will confirm it is right for you before we supply it.
