|
|
Article: Aminoglycoside-containing eardrops: avoiding ototoxicity and choosing safer alternatives.
- Article from:
- Ear, Nose and Throat Journal
- Article date:
- August 1, 2003
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 Vendome Group LLC. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
I have no problem using aminoglycoside-containing topical antibiotic drops in the presence of an intact tympanic membrane. However, a major problem could arise when a patient has a defect in a tympanic membrane--for example, a ventilation tube or a perforation--that might allow these drops to be absorbed into the inner ear via the round window membrane. Under these circumstances, I prefer to use a topical quinolone, which in my practice has been every bit as effective.
If there is no alternative but to use an aminoglycoside, then I do so carefully; I prescribe it for the shortest duration necessary and certainly for no longer than 5 or 7 days without reviewing ...