Cetraxal Plus Ear Drops

Cetraxal Plus are prescription-only ear drops containing ciprofloxacin and fluocinolone acetonide. They’re used to treat bacterial ear infections where symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, itching, or discharge are present.

What’s the difference between Cetraxal and Cetraxal Plus

Both Cetraxal and Cetraxal Plus are drops used to treat bacterial ear infections, but they work slightly differently.

Cetraxal only contains ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic which treats the infection by killing the bacteria causing it. It’s usually used when symptoms are mild and there’s little inflammation.

Cetraxal Plus contains the same antibiotic plus fluocinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid. This means Cetraxal Plus helps reduce swelling, redness, itching and pain as well as treating the infection.

Cetraxal Plus works by combining an antibiotic to clear the infection with a mild steroid to help calm inflammation and soothe discomfort, making it particularly suitable when ear infections are causing noticeable irritation or soreness.

How long does it take to work?

Cetraxal Plus usually begins to ease symptoms within 2 to 3 days of starting treatment. Many people notice reduced pain, swelling, or irritation early on due to the corticosteroid.

However, it’s important to complete the full 7‑day course, even if symptoms improve sooner, to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

Cetraxal Plus Eye drops are designed to be easy-to-use, with each pack including single-dose containers.

The recommended dose is 1 single-dose container used twice a day in the affected ear for 7 days. To make sure your infection does not return, do not stop treatment early, even if your ear feels better.

When using Cetraxal Plus:

1. Wash your hands and gently clean any discharge that can be easily removed (from the outer ear only).
2. Remove one single‑dose container from the pack and warm it in your hands for 1–2 minutes.
3. Twist off the cap, then tilt your head so the affected ear is facing upwards.
4. Place the entire contents of the single‑dose container into the ear and keep your head tilted for about 1 minute. Moving your head upright can cause the fluid to leak out of the ear canal.
5. Discard the container after use and repeat for the other ear if advised.

For outer ear infections:

After applying the drops, gently pull the ear lobe upwards and backwards. This helps the medicine flow down into the ear canal.

For middle ear infections:

Gently press the ear lobe in front of the ear several times. This helps the drops pass through the eardrum tube and into the middle ear.

As with using any medicine, Cetraxal Plus may cause side effects in some people, although not everyone will get them.

Common side effects include:

• discomfort, pain, itching in the ear
• abnormal taste

This is not a complete list of side effects, for a full list you should read the patient information leaflet.

Cetraxal Plus should only be applied to the ear. Do not swallow, inject, inhale or apply to the eye.

While helpful for some, Cetraxal Plus is not suitable for everyone. You should speak to a pharmacist or doctor before using it if you:

• are taking any other medication, whether it is prescribed or not
• are pregnant, planning to have a baby, or breast-feeding

You should not use Cetraxal Plus if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to ciprofloxacin, fluocinolone acetonide or any other medicines
• have an ear infection that’s been caused by a virus or a fungus

Cetraxal Plus should be kept out of the sight and reach of children and stored below 30°C, in its original packaging to protect it from light.

Once the pouch is opened, it should be used within 7 days. Each single‑dose container is for single use only and should be used immediately after opening, then discarded.

How long should I use Cetraxal Plus?

Cetraxal Plus should be used for 7 days, or however long a doctor has instructed you to use them for. Even if you begin to notice improvements, you should complete the full course of using this medication to avoid the infection coming back.

Can I drink alcohol while using Cetraxal Plus Ear Drops?

Yes. There’s no known interaction with alcohol, so it’s generally fine to drink while using Cetraxal Plus. If you’re feeling unwell because of the infection, you may still prefer to limit alcohol until you feel better.

Sources

• Cetraxal Plus Ear Drops PIL (2025). EMC. [Accessed 22 April 2026]
• Common questions about ciprofloxacin (2022). NHS. [Accessed 22 April 2026]