Cilodex – Powerful antibiotic-steroid combination for serious ear infections.
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What is Cilodex?
Cilodex is a powerful combination ear medication that provides both potent antibiotic and anti-inflammatory effects for serious ear infections. The combination of ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone makes it particularly effective for complex or resistant ear infections that require intensive treatment.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing severe ear pain, persistent ear discharge, or ear infections that haven’t responded to other treatments. Our GPs can assess your ear condition and determine if Cilodex or other specialized ear treatments are appropriate for your specific symptoms.
What is Cilodex used for?
- Acute otitis externa (outer ear infections)
- Chronic otitis media with effusion
- Post-surgical ear infections
- Severe bacterial ear infections
- Swimmer's ear with significant inflammation
- Infected ear conditions requiring potent treatment
- Otitis media with tympanostomy tubes
How does Cilodex work?
A combination ear drop containing ciprofloxacin (fluoroquinolone antibiotic) and dexamethasone (potent steroid), providing powerful antibacterial action while reducing severe inflammation and pain.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
4 drops into affected ear(s) twice daily for 7 days. Warm to room temperature before use.
Children
Same dosage as adults—safe for use in children over 6 months.
Important Notes
- Tilt head and instill drops into ear canal.
- Keep head tilted for 60 seconds after instillation.
- Gently massage the area in front of the ear to help drops penetrate.
- Only for use when eardrum is intact or with tympanostomy tubes.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Ear discomfort or pain
- Itching in the ear
- Altered taste
- Ear discharge (initially may increase)
- Headache
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Hearing loss (if eardrum perforated)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Ototoxicity (hearing damage)
- Fungal superinfection
- Systemic steroid effects (rare with topical use)
- Tympanic membrane perforation
Important Warnings
- CRITICAL: Only use if eardrum is intact or you have tympanostomy tubes—can cause deafness if eardrum is perforated.
- Tell your GP if you have a history of ear surgery or hearing problems.
- Stop immediately if you develop hearing loss, severe ear pain, or discharge.
- Not suitable for viral or fungal ear infections.
- More potent than many ear treatments—reserved for serious infections.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Generally minimal systemic absorption with appropriate ear use.
- Avoid using with other ear medications unless specifically advised.
- May enhance effects of other topical steroids if used elsewhere.
- Generally safe to use with oral medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Cilodex different from other ear drops?
Cilodex contains ciprofloxacin, a potent fluoroquinolone antibiotic, plus dexamethasone, a strong steroid. It's reserved for serious ear infections that haven't responded to milder treatments.
Why is it so important that my eardrum isn't perforated?
If the eardrum is perforated, the medication can enter the middle ear and potentially damage hearing structures, causing permanent hearing loss.
Can I use Cilodex for my child's ear infection?
Yes, if prescribed by a doctor and the eardrum is intact. Children over 6 months can use the same dose, but proper diagnosis is essential.
How do I know if the drops are working?
You should see improvement in pain and discharge within 2-3 days. If symptoms worsen or don't improve after 3 days, contact your GP.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14