Acetasol otic

Generic Name: acetic acid (otic) (a SEET ik AS id)

Brand Names: Acetasol

What is acetic acid?

Acetic acid otic (for the ear) is an antibiotic that treats infections caused by bacteria or fungus.

Acetic acid is used to treat infections in the ear canal. This medication will not treat an inner ear infection (also called otitis media).

Acetic acid may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about acetic acid?

Use this medication as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all. You may feel a slight burning or stinging when you first apply acetic acid ear drops. Talk to your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effects.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using acetic acid?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to acetic acid, or if you have a hole in your ear drum (ruptured ear drum).

Before using acetic acid, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have severe ear pain, fever, or hearing problems. You may not be able to use acetic acid.

This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Before using any medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby. Do not use acetic acid ear drops in a child younger than 3 years old.

How should I use acetic acid?

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

For best results, remove any ear wax or other debris before using acetic acid ear drops. Ask your doctor about safe methods of ear wax removal.

Acetic acid ear drops can be applied directly into the ear, or using a cotton wick. You can make a cotton wick by using a small piece of a cotton ball.

It is best to use the ear drops with a cotton wick because it will keep the medication in constant contact with the skin inside your ear.

You may soak the wick with the ear drops and then insert it into your ear. You may also insert the wick into the ear first and then drop in enough acetic acid to make the wick moist inside the ear canal.

Keep the cotton wick in place for at least 24 hours, and keep it moist by applying 3 to 5 drops of acetic acid placed into the affected ear every 4 to 6 hours.

After removing the wick, you may then use the ear drops directly in your ear without a wick. The usual dose is 5 drops of acetic acid used 3 or 4 times daily. Follow your doctor's instructions about how long to keep using the ear drops.

Do not place the dropper tip into your ear, or allow the tip to touch any surface. It may become contaminated.

Wipe the dropper tip with a clean tissue. Do not wash the tip with water or soap.

Store acetic acid ear drops at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of acetic acid placed into the ear is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while using acetic acid?

Avoid using other ear drops to treat your condition unless your doctor has told you otherwise.

Acetic acid side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

You may feel a slight stinging or burning when you first use acetic acid ear drops.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect acetic acid?

There may be other drugs that can affect acetic acid. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

More Acetasol resources

• Acetasol Side Effects (in more detail)
• Acetasol Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Acetasol Support Group
• 0 Reviews for Acetasol - Add your own review/rating

Compare Acetasol with other medications

• Otitis Externa

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about acetic acid.

See also: Acetasol side effects (in more detail)