Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone: A Complete Overview

Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone is a prescription ear drop that combines an antibiotic with a steroid to treat bacterial outer ear infections, commonly known as swimmer's ear. Sold under the brand name Cipro HC Otic, it's one of the most commonly prescribed combination ear drops in the United States.

Whether you've just been prescribed this medication or you're researching it for a family member, this guide covers everything you need to know — from what it is and how it works to how much it costs in 2026.

What Is Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone?

Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone otic suspension is a combination medication containing two active ingredients:

• Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride (0.2%) — A fluoroquinolone antibiotic that kills bacteria by blocking their ability to replicate DNA.
• Hydrocortisone (1%) — A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, swelling, itching, and pain in the ear canal.

Together, these ingredients treat the infection and relieve symptoms at the same time.

Key Facts

• Brand name: Cipro HC Otic
• Generic name: Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride 0.2% and Hydrocortisone 1% Otic Suspension
• Drug class: Fluoroquinolone antibiotic + corticosteroid combination (otic)
• Manufacturer: Novartis (brand); Cosette Pharmaceuticals (generic, approved December 2025)
• Controlled substance: No
• Form: Otic suspension (ear drops) in a 10 mL bottle with dropper

Cipro HC Otic was originally approved by the FDA and was a single-source brand product for over 27 years. The first generic became available in December 2025 when Cosette Pharmaceuticals received approval with 180-day competitive generic therapy (CGT) exclusivity.

What Is It Used For?

Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone is FDA-approved to treat:

• Acute otitis externa (swimmer's ear) — A bacterial infection of the outer ear canal caused by susceptible strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus mirabilis.

It's approved for use in adults and children aged 1 year and older.

Some doctors also use it off-label for chronic suppurative otitis media with tympanostomy tubes, though other medications like Ciprodex are specifically approved for that use.

How Is It Taken?

The standard dosage is 3 drops into the affected ear twice daily for 7 days. Here's how to use it properly:

1. Shake the bottle well before each use.
2. Warm the bottle by holding it in your hands for 1 to 2 minutes. Cold drops can cause dizziness.
3. Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up.
4. Instill 3 drops into the ear canal.
5. Stay in position for 30 to 60 seconds to allow the drops to reach the infection.
6. If your ear canal is swollen, your doctor may recommend using a cotton wick to help the medication reach deeper.
7. Complete the full 7-day course, even if symptoms improve before then.

Do not use this medication in the eyes. It is for ear use only.

Who Should Not Take It?

Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone should not be used by people who have:

• A known allergy to Ciprofloxacin, other fluoroquinolone antibiotics, Hydrocortisone, or any ingredient in the formulation
• Viral infections of the ear canal, including herpes simplex or chickenpox (varicella)
• Fungal ear infections

It has not been studied in infants under 1 year old. Pregnant women should use it only if clearly needed (Pregnancy Category C), and breastfeeding women should use it with caution.

For more on side effects, see: Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone Side Effects: What to Expect

How Much Does It Cost?

Cost depends on whether you're getting the brand or generic, and whether you have insurance:

• Brand-name Cipro HC Otic: $350 to $480 for a 10 mL bottle without insurance
• Generic (Cosette Pharmaceuticals): Estimated $70 to $150 per 10 mL bottle at retail
• With discount coupons: Brand may come down to $130 to $350 with cards from GoodRx or SingleCare
• With insurance: Most plans cover the generic, often with a modest copay. Brand-name may require prior authorization now that a generic is available.

For tips on reducing your costs, see our guide to saving money on Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone.

How Does It Compare to Other Ear Drops?

There are several alternatives your doctor might consider:

• Ofloxacin Otic Solution (Floxin Otic) — A fluoroquinolone antibiotic without a steroid. First-line for swimmer's ear, generic available at roughly $25 to $40.
• Ciprofloxacin/Dexamethasone (Ciprodex) — Another antibiotic-steroid combination. Also approved for otitis media with tympanostomy tubes. Generic available at about $55 to $65 with a coupon.
• Neomycin/Polymyxin B/Hydrocortisone (Cortisporin) — An older, very affordable option at $15 to $30, but carries ototoxicity risk if the eardrum is perforated.

For a detailed comparison, see: Alternatives to Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone

Final Thoughts

Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone is a well-established, effective treatment for swimmer's ear that's been used for decades. The arrival of the first generic in late 2025 has made it more affordable and accessible than ever. If you've been prescribed this medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully, complete the full course, and don't hesitate to reach out to your provider if symptoms don't improve.

Need help finding it at a pharmacy? Medfinder can help you locate Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone in stock near you.