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Ciprofloxacin. Use as a topical otic preparation
R E Brownlee1, G F Hulka, J Prazma
1Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Topical ciprofloxacin hydrochloride did not cause significant ototoxicity in guinea pigs. Small hearing threshold increases were noted, but no hair-cell damage occurred, suggesting potential safety for otic preparations.
Area of Science:
- Ototoxicology
- Pharmacology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Common topical otic preparations can cause hearing loss and hair-cell damage in animal models.
- Ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, shows efficacy against resistant bacteria and has been used orally for ear infections.
- The ototoxicity of topical ciprofloxacin has not been previously investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the ototoxicity of topical ciprofloxacin hydrochloride in a guinea pig model.
- To determine if topical ciprofloxacin causes sensorineural hearing loss or hair-cell damage.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-five guinea pigs received bilateral transbullae drug delivery tubes.
- Auditory brain-stem response thresholds were measured before and after 7 days of twice-daily treatment with 0.75% ciprofloxacin or saline.
- Neomycin sulfate was used as a positive control in a separate group.
Main Results:
- No significant ototoxic reactions were observed in guinea pigs treated with topical ciprofloxacin.
- Minor, non-significant increases in hearing thresholds were detected at 4 kHz and 8 kHz in ciprofloxacin-treated ears.
- No significant hair-cell loss was observed in the cochleae of treated animals.
Conclusions:
- Topical ciprofloxacin hydrochloride demonstrated a lack of significant ototoxicity in the studied guinea pig model.
- The findings suggest that ciprofloxacin may be a safe alternative for topical otic preparations, warranting further investigation.
- Further research is recommended to confirm the safety and efficacy of topical ciprofloxacin for ear conditions.