Description:

Acetic Acid Solution USP 2% Ear Drops (also known as Acetic Acid Otic Solution 2%) is a sterile, nonaqueous topical preparation used primarily to treat superficial infections of the external ear canal (otitis externa, commonly called “swimmer’s ear”). It acts as an antimicrobial agent by creating an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi (including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida), while helping to dry the ear canal and relieve associated symptoms like itching, pain, and discharge. It is often used for mild to moderate cases or as adjunctive therapy after cleaning the ear. In Ghana (Accra), acetic acid 2% ear drops are a common, affordable OTC/generic option available in pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy lists “Acetic Acid Ear Drop 2%”) for ear infections, particularly swimmer’s ear or fungal/bacterial outer ear issues.

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC) in many regions, including Ghana for short-term use in uncomplicated cases (available without prescription in pharmacies). However, consult a doctor, ENT specialist, or pharmacist before use if symptoms are severe, recurrent, involve perforation of the eardrum, or for children under 3 years (some sources note prescription-only in certain markets or for safety).

Therapeutic Category:

Topical Antiseptic / Antimicrobial Otic Solution (for external ear canal infections.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Acetic acid (glacial acetic acid) 2% w/v (20 mg per ml). Other ingredients (excipients, typical USP formulation): Propylene glycol (vehicle), propylene glycol diacetate (3%), benzethonium chloride (0.02% preservative), sodium acetate (0.015%), citric acid (pH buffer), and purified water. The solution is buffered to pH 3 for antimicrobial activity and is nonaqueous to avoid moisture-related issues in the ear.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Acetic Acid 2% Otic Solution (standard 2% strength; common 10ml or 15ml dropper bottle in Ghana). Related variants: Acetic acid 2% with hydrocortisone (e.g., VoSol HC or generics for added anti-inflammatory effect), higher/lower concentrations (rare), or combination products. The queried 2% plain version is the basic antimicrobial ear drop.

Consume Type:

Topical – Otic (ear) drops (instilled into the external ear canal; not for oral, ophthalmic, or internal use).

Directions/Usage:

Use only in the external ear canal as directed (usually 3–4 times daily).

• Warm bottle by holding in hand for 1–2 minutes (avoid hot water to prevent burns).
• Lie on side with affected ear up or tilt head.
• Instill 4–6 drops into the ear canal (or enough to fill it).
• Keep ear up for 5 minutes to allow penetration; gently pull outer ear to straighten canal.
• A cotton wick may be inserted (soaked in solution) for 24 hours, kept moist by adding 3–5 drops every 4–6 hours if advised.
• Duration: Typically 7–10 days or as prescribed; complete full course.
• Do not use if eardrum perforated unless doctor confirms safe.

Common Side Effects: Common (mild/transient):

• Temporary stinging, burning, or irritation in the ear canal on instillation (most frequent).
• Mild dryness or redness. Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling—discontinue), worsening infection, or hearing changes. No systemic effects expected with proper topical use.

Package Type:

Plastic dropper bottle (typically 10ml or 15ml) with nozzle/cap (safety-tip or measured dropper); often in carton with patient leaflet.

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or below 25–30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and freezing. Keep tightly closed. Discard 4 weeks after opening or if cloudy/discolored. Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external ear canal use only; do not use if eardrum perforated (risk of middle ear damage) or known allergy to acetic acid/ingredients.
• Avoid eyes, mouth, or open wounds.
• Not for inner ear infections (otitis media).
• Caution in children under 3 years (consult doctor).
• If severe pain, swelling, discharge, fever, or hearing loss occurs, stop use and seek medical care (may indicate perforation or worsening infection).
• Do not use longer than prescribed (risk of irritation/resistance).
• Keep out of reach of children (accidental ingestion low risk but seek help if occurs).

Product Substitutes: Similar acetic acid 2% ear drops available in Ghana include:

• Acetic Acid Ear Drop 2% (generic at Scab Pharmacy and others).
• VoSol or Acetasol generics (if stocked).
• Combinations: Acetic acid + hydrocortisone (e.g., VoSol HC generics for added inflammation relief). Alternatives: Antibiotic ear drops (e.g., ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone like Ciprodex generics) or clotrimazole drops (for fungal otitis externa). Consult pharmacist/ENT specialist in Accra (e.g., Korle Bu Ear Clinic) for suitability.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Varies by brand (e.g., generics from Indian manufacturers like Shivalik Pharma Ghana Limited, Supra Pharma Limited, or Samos Pharma; often imported and marketed locally). No specific “brand” dominates, but generics are common via importers/pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy lists “Acetic Acid Ear Drop 2%”).

Country of Origin:

India (primary source for generic acetic acid 2% ear drops imported to Ghana; USP-compliant and widely available locally). Some from other exporters (e.g., Nigeria or Egypt in regional markets).