Acetic acid (otic)
Generic name: acetic acid (otic) [ a-SEET-ik-AS-id ]
Brand names: Vosol, Acetasol, Vasotate
Dosage form: otic solution (2%)
Drug class:Otic anti-infectives
What is acetic acid?
Acetic acid is an antibiotic that treats infections caused by bacteria or fungus.
Acetic acid otic (for the ear) is used to treat infections in the ear canal. acetic acid will not treat an inner ear infection (also called otitis media).
Acetic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use acetic acid if you have a hole in your ear drum (ruptured ear drum).
Before taking this medicine
You should not use acetic acid if you are allergic to it, or if you have a hole in your ear drum (ruptured ear drum).
To make sure acetic acid is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
severe ear pain;
hearing problems; or
fever.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.
Acetic acid should not be used on a child younger than 3 years old.
How should I use acetic acid?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
For best results, remove any ear wax or other debris before using this medicine. Ask your doctor about safe methods of ear wax removal.
To use the ear drops:
Soak a small piece of cotton with several drops of this medicine and then insert it into your ear. Or you may insert the cotton into your ear first and then drop in enough medicine to soak the cotton inside the ear canal.
Leave the cotton in your ear for at least 24 hours, and keep it moist by adding 3 to 5 drops of acetic acid to the cotton every 4 to 6 hours.
After removing the cotton, you may then place the drops directly into your ear 3 or 4 times daily. Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
Follow your doctor's instructions about how long to keep using acetic acid ear drops.
Do not touch the dropper tip or place it directly in your ear. It may become contaminated. Wipe the tip with a clean tissue but do not wash with water or soap.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up t...
