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What is Acetic Acid; Hydrocortisone Ear Solution?

ACETIC ACID; HYDROCORTISONE (Acetasol®, VoSoL® HC and others) is used to treat outer ear infections, sometimes referred to as 'swimmer's ear.' Acetic acid stops the growth of bacteria and fungus. Hydrocortisone stops the inflammation and itching caused by the infection. Generic Acetic acid; Hydrocortisone ear solution is available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• herpes infection
• ruptured ear drum
• vaccinia (the skin blister that occurs after a smallpox vaccine)
• an unusual reaction to acetic acid, hydrocortisone, propylene glycol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should this medicine be used?

Acetic acid; Hydrocortisone ear solution is only for use in your ears. Wash your hands with soap and water. First, carefully clean your ear(s) with a dry cotton swab. Gently warm the bottle by holding it in the hand for 1—2 minutes. Use the ear solution as directed by your prescriber. Lie down on your side with the affected ear up. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your ear, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the bottle gently to put the prescribed number of drops in the ear canal. Stay in this position for 30—60 seconds to help the drops soak into the ear. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Repeat, if necessary, for the opposite ear. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your health care professional even if you think your condition is better.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medication is normally used in children 3 years of age and older.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with Acetic Acid; Hydrocortisone?

Do not use other ear products with Acetic Acid; Hydrocortisone ear solution without consulting your prescriber or health care professional.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while using Acetic Acid; Hydrocortisone?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your ear infection does not get better in a few days. If a rash or allergic reaction occurs, stop using this product immediately and contact your prescriber.

It is important that you keep the infected ear(s) clean and dry. When bathing, try not to get the infected ear(s) wet. Do not go swimming unless your prescriber or health care professional has told you otherwise.

To prevent the spread of infection, do not share ear products or share towels and washcloths with anyone else. Throw away any unused ear drops when you are done with your full course of treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Acetic Acid; Hydrocortisone?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
• burning, itching, and redness
• worsening ear pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• unpleasant sensation while putting the drops in the ear

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

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