How do you take Dexamethasone; Ciprofloxacin?

For eye use: Put 1-2 drops into the affected eye every 4-6 hours as your doctor prescribes. For ear use: Put 3-4 drops into the affected ear twice daily. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not let the tip of the bottle touch your eye, ear, or fingers. A typical course is 7-14 days, and your doctor will advise.

What are the side effects of Dexamethasone; Ciprofloxacin?

Mild burning or stinging when you first apply the drops, temporary blurry vision after putting drops in the eye, slight itching or discomfort at the application site

Who should not take Dexamethasone; Ciprofloxacin?

People allergic to ciprofloxacin, other fluoroquinolone antibiotics, or dexamethasone. People with viral eye infections like herpes of the eye. People with fungal eye or ear infections. People with a hole (perforation) in the eardrum should not use it in the ear unless a doctor approves.

Prescription

Antibiotic-Steroid Combination (Eye/Ear Drop)

Dexamethasone; Ciprofloxacin

Q: What is Dexamethasone; Ciprofloxacin used for?

Eye infections with swelling or redness, ear infections (otitis), pink eye (Apollo) with inflammation, post-eye surgery infection prevention

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

This is a combination eye/ear drop containing two medicines: ciprofloxacin (an antibiotic that kills bacteria) and dexamethasone (a steroid that reduces swelling, redness, and pain). Together they fight infection and calm inflammation at the same time.

How it works

Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA replication and transcription in gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, while dexamethasone binds glucocorticoid receptors to suppress inflammatory mediators and reduce edema, erythema, and pain associated with infection.

What is it used for?

Eye infections with swelling or rednessear infections (otitis)pink eye (Apollo) with inflammationpost-eye surgery infection prevention

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Eye Infections

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Complete the full course even if your eye or ear feels better after a few days, as stopping early can bring back the infection stronger. Buy only from licensed pharmacies; brands like Sphex Eye Drops are available, so avoid unregistered products from roadside sellers. Do not share your eye/ear drops with anyone else, as this can spread infection.

Common Side Effects

Mild burning or stinging when you first apply the drops
temporary blurry vision after putting drops in the eye
slight itching or discomfort at the application site

Serious Side Effects

Worsening eye pain
vision changes
or increased swelling could mean the infection is getting worse or you are having a reaction. Sudden eye pressure increase or persistent headache behind the eye requires immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

If you are using other eye or ear drops, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different drops. Avoid using this with other steroid eye drops unless your doctor says so, as it can increase eye pressure. Let your doctor know if you are taking any blood-thinning drugs like warfarin.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you to, as the steroid component can potentially affect your baby.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to ciprofloxacin
other fluoroquinolone antibiotics
or dexamethasone. People with viral eye infections like herpes of the eye. People with fungal eye or ear infections. People with a hole (perforation) in the eardrum should not use it in the ear unless a doctor approves.

How to Store

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as Nigerian heat can spoil eye drops quickly. Keep the bottle tightly closed after each use. Once opened, use within 28 days and throw away any remaining drops. Keep out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.