Cetraxal Plus Ear Drops

What is Cetraxal Plus?

Cetraxal Plus is a medication used to treat bacterial ear infections, also known as otitis externa. It comes in the form of ear drops and contains two active ingredients: ciprofloxacin, which is an antibiotic, and dexamethasone, which is a corticosteroid. Ciprofloxacin works by killing the bacteria causing the infection, while dexamethasone helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain and discomfort associated with the infection. Cetraxal Plus is typically prescribed by healthcare professionals for its effectiveness in treating ear infections and its convenient administration directly into the ear canal.

How does Cetraxal Plus work?

Cetraxal Plus works through its two active ingredients: ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone.

1. Ciprofloxacin: This is an antibiotic that belongs to the fluoroquinolone class. It works by inhibiting the growth and replication of bacteria responsible for the infection. Ciprofloxacin targets bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death. By eliminating the bacteria causing the infection, ciprofloxacin helps clear up the infection and alleviate associated symptoms.
2. Fluocinolone: This is a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Fluocinolone reduces inflammation and swelling in the ear canal, providing relief from pain, itching, and discomfort associated with the infection. By suppressing the immune response in the affected area, Fluocinolone helps to control the body's reaction to the infection, further reducing symptoms.

When combined, ciprofloxacin and fluocinolone in Cetraxal Plus offer a dual-action approach to treating bacterial ear infections. Ciprofloxacin targets the underlying bacterial cause of the infection, while fluocinolone helps alleviate inflammation and discomfort, providing comprehensive relief and promoting faster healing.

Can Cetraxal Plus treat blocked ear wax?

Cetraxal Plus is specifically formulated to treat bacterial ear infections, also known as otitis externa. It contains ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic, and dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, which work together to combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the ear canal.

However, Cetraxal Plus is not intended for the treatment of blocked ear wax, which is known as cerumen impaction. Cerumen impaction occurs when ear wax accumulates and blocks the ear canal, leading to symptoms such as ear fullness, hearing loss, and discomfort.

For the treatment of cerumen impaction, other types of ear drops or solutions may be recommended by healthcare professionals. These products are specifically designed to soften and dissolve ear wax, facilitating its removal from the ear canal. Additionally, cerumen impaction may sometimes require manual removal by a healthcare provider using specialized tools or techniques.

Can Cetraxal Plus relieve glue ear?

Glue ear is where the empty middle part of the ear canal fills up with fluid. This can cause temporary hearing loss. Unfortunately, ear drops and decongestants aren’t usually very effective unless there are signs of infection. Glue ear usually clears up within 3 months but if symptoms persist it’s best to speak to your GP for further advice.

How does Cetraxal Plus help swimmers?

Cetraxal Plus is not typically indicated for the treatment of glue ear, also known as otitis media with effusion (OME). Glue ear is a condition where fluid accumulates in the middle ear behind the eardrum, leading to symptoms such as hearing loss, ear fullness, and discomfort.

Cetraxal Plus is primarily used to treat bacterial ear infections (otitis externa), and it contains ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic, and dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, which work together to combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the ear canal.

Glue ear, on the other hand, is often managed through watchful waiting, especially in cases where the condition resolves on its own without treatment. However, if glue ear persists or causes significant symptoms, healthcare professionals may recommend treatments such as ventilation tubes (tympanostomy tubes), nasal sprays, or medications to reduce nasal congestion and inflammation.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management of glue ear to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on the individual's specific circumstances and symptoms.