Acetic Acid

Brand Names: Acetic Acid

Drug Class: General Prescription

Overview

DESCRIPTION Acetic acid otic solution, USP is a solution of acetic acid (2%), in a propylene glycol vehicle containing propylene glycol diacetate (3%), benzethonium chloride (0.02%), sodium acetate (0.015%), and citric acid. The molecular formula for acetic acid is CH 3 COOH, with a molecular weight of 60.05.

Mechanism of Action

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Acetic acid is antibacterial and antifungal; propylene glycol is hydrophilic and provides a low surface tension; benzethonium chloride is a surface active agent that promotes contact of the solution with tissues.

Indications

  • INDICATIONS AND USAGE For the treatment of superficial infections of the external auditory canal caused by organisms susceptible to the action of the antimicrobial.

Common Doses

  • Refer to label

Dosage

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Carefully remove all cerumen and debris to allow acetic acid otic solution to contact infected surfaces directly. To promote continuous contact, insert a wick of cotton saturated with acetic acid otic solution into the ear canal; the wick may also be saturated after insertion. Instruct the patient to keep the wick in for at least 24 hours and to keep it moist by adding 3 drops to 5 drops of acetic acid otic solution every 4 hours to 6 hours.

Contraindications

  • CONTRAINDICATIONS Hypersensitivity to acetic acid otic solution or any of the ingredients. Perforated tympanic membrane is considered a contraindication to the use of any medication in the external ear canal.

Side Effects

  • ADVERSE REACTIONS Stinging or burning may be noted occasionally; local irritation has occurred very rarely. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Saptalis Pharmaceuticals, LLC at 1-833-727-8254 or FDA at 1­800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Interactions

  • No major interactions listed on the FDA label. Always consult a healthcare professional.