Cetraxal ear drops: how to use them and how long take them

Cetraxal Plus ear drops are a prescription medication used to treat bacterial ear infections, particularly acute otitis externa (infection of the outer ear canal) and infections in patients with tympanostomy tubes (grommets).

• Cetraxal Plus contains two active ingredients: ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that eliminates bacteria causing the infection, and fluocinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, swelling and discomfort. This combination allows Cetraxal Plus to treat both the infection and associated inflammatory symptoms.
• Cetraxal Plus ear drops are formulated specifically for otic (ear) use only. They must not be swallowed or used in the eyes. Before applying the drops, the ear canal should be clean and dry to allow proper contact with the infected area.
• Regarding Cetraxal Plus ear drops dosage, the usual recommended dose for adults and children aged 6 months and older is 6 to 8 drops into the affected ear every 12 hours (twice daily). Treatment typically lasts 7 days, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional. If both ears are infected, the prescribed dose should be applied to each affected ear.
• It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve earlier, to ensure the infection is fully resolved. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

• Cetraxal ear drops generally receive positive reviews from patients and healthcare professionals for their effectiveness in treating bacterial outer ear infections (otitis externa). Many users report that Cetraxal helps reduce pain, itching, redness and discharge, often noticing improvement within a few days of starting treatment when used as directed. Because the active ingredient, ciprofloxacin, is a well-established antibiotic, clinicians often consider it a reliable choice for uncomplicated bacterial ear infections, especially when topical therapy is preferred over oral antibiotics.
• Patients frequently highlight that Cetraxal is easy to use and relatively comfortable when instilled correctly into the ear. For many, the drops are seen as convenient compared with systemic antibiotic options, and because the medication is applied directly to the site of infection, unwanted systemic side effects are uncommon. Mild irritation, temporary stinging or a sensation of fullness in the ear are the most commonly reported minor side effects, and these typically resolve quickly as treatment progresses.
• Healthcare providers often stress that proper ear cleaning before administration improves outcomes, and that Cetraxal should only be used when a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected. Some reviewers note that, like all antibiotics, Cetraxal must be used as prescribed and the full course completed, even if symptoms start to improve early. Overall, feedback suggests that Cetraxal is effective, well-tolerated and a trusted topical antibiotic option for suitable ear infections.
• Individual experiences vary, and anyone with persistent or worsening symptoms should seek further medical advice.

Always complete the full prescribed course and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Cetraxal ear drops are available in different formulations depending on the country and clinical indication. All Cetraxal products are designed for otic (ear) use only and are used to treat bacterial ear infections.

• One common format is Cetraxal 2 mg/ml ear drops, which contains ciprofloxacin 2 mg per ml as the active ingredient. This formulation is typically supplied in single-dose containers and is indicated for the treatment of acute otitis externa (outer ear infection). The single-dose presentation helps ensure accurate dosing and reduces the risk of contamination.
• In some markets, a higher-strength preparation such as Cetraxal ear drops 3 mg/ml is available. This formulation also contains ciprofloxacin and is used for bacterial ear infections, including otitis externa and certain middle ear infections in patients with ventilation tubes. The exact strength and packaging may vary depending on national regulatory approvals.
• Another related product is Cetraxal Plus 3 mg/ml + 0.25 mg/ml ear drops solution. This combination contains ciprofloxacin (3 mg/ml) together with fluocinolone acetonide (0.25 mg/ml), a corticosteroid. The antibiotic treats the infection, while the corticosteroid helps reduce inflammation, swelling and discomfort.
• The choice between Cetraxal 2 mg/ml, Cetraxal 3 mg/ml, or Cetraxal Plus depends on the type and severity of the infection, as determined by a healthcare professional.

In the UK, Cetraxal ear drops are prescription-only medicines and are typically supplied through private pharmacies or online clinics following a medical assessment. They are not usually available for over-the-counter purchase. The price of Cetraxal can vary depending on the provider, consultation fees and delivery charges. For Cetraxal (ciprofloxacin 2 mg/ml ear drops), private prices commonly range from approximately £30 to £40 for a pack of single-dose containers. The final cost may include the clinical review required to issue the prescription. Cetraxal Plus (3 mg/ml ciprofloxacin + 0.25 mg/ml fluocinolone acetonide), which combines an antibiotic with a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation, is also available privately in the UK. Prices for Cetraxal Plus are often slightly lower than standard Cetraxal, typically starting from around £18 to £25, depending on the pharmacy and whether consultation fees are included. Below is a general comparison:

*Prices are indicative and may vary between providers.

If prescribed via the NHS, patients in England may pay the standard prescription charge (unless exempt), while Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different prescription policies. Always confirm current pricing directly with the supplying pharmacy.

Cetraxal ear drops contain ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial outer ear infections (acute otitis externa). Using Cetraxal safely helps ensure the infection clears properly and reduces the risk of complications.

1. Before using the drops, wash your hands thoroughly. If possible, gently clean and dry the outer ear to remove any visible discharge. Do not insert cotton buds or objects deep into the ear canal. If the product is supplied in single-dose containers, open one container just before use and discard any remaining solution after application.
2. Tilt your head to one side with the affected ear facing upward. Instil the prescribed amount (often the contents of one single-dose container) into the ear. Keep your head tilted for about one minute to allow the drops to reach the full length of the ear canal. Avoid touching the tip of the container to the ear to prevent contamination.
3. Use Cetraxal exactly as prescribed, usually twice daily for about 7 days. Complete the full course even if symptoms improve earlier. Do not stop treatment prematurely.
4. Seek medical advice if you experience severe pain, swelling, rash, dizziness, or if symptoms do not improve within a few days. Cetraxal is for ear use only and should not be swallowed or used in the eyes.

Cetraxal ear drops contain ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the outer ear (acute otitis externa). Like all medicines, Cetraxal can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most commonly reported side effects are mild and localised to the ear. These may include temporary discomfort, itching, irritation, a burning sensation, or pain at the application site. Some patients may notice a feeling of fullness in the ear or mild redness. These effects are usually short-lived and resolve without treatment. Less commonly, hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, swelling, or severe itching may occur. If signs of an allergic reaction develop, medical attention should be sought immediately. Regarding contraindications, Cetraxal should not be used by individuals who are allergic to ciprofloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any of the product’s ingredients. It is intended for otic (ear) use only and must not be swallowed or applied to the eyes. Use should be limited to confirmed or strongly suspected bacterial infections, as it is not effective against viral or fungal ear conditions. If symptoms worsen, fail to improve after several days, or if severe pain, swelling, or discharge persists, medical advice should be sought. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions when using Cetraxal ear drops.