How To Use Otigo Ear Drops: Step-by-Step Dosage Guide
Key Takeaways
- Warm first: Roll bottle between hands for 1-2 minutes to prevent vertigo
- Proper positioning: Tilt head with affected ear upward, pull earlobe backward
- Precise dosing: 4 drops, 2-3 times daily (max 7 days)
- Absorption time: Maintain position for 3-5 minutes after instillation
- Hygiene: Never let dropper touch ear to avoid contamination
Proper administration of Otigo ear drops is crucial for effective treatment of ear infections. Our guide demonstrates correct positioning techniques (including the "pull and tilt" method for adults versus children), proper dosage measurement, aftercare procedures to ensure medication retention, and special considerations for different types of ear infections (acute otitis externa vs. chronic cases).
Preparation Steps
1 Check Eardrum Integrity
Never use Otigo if you suspect a perforated eardrum (pain, discharge, hearing loss)
- Confirm with a healthcare professional if unsure
- Absolute contraindication for perforated tympanic membranes
2 Warm the Bottle
- Roll bottle between palms for 1-2 minutes
- Ideal temperature: body heat (≈37°C)
- Why? Cold drops can cause vertigo or nystagmus
- Never use hot water/microwave (destroys active ingredients)
3 Prepare the Dropper
- Unscrew bottle cap and attach dropper (first-time use)
- Remove protective cap from dropper tip
- Hold bottle upright to prevent leakage
- Practice squeezing to understand pressure needed
Drop Instillation Technique
4 Positioning
- Sit or lie with affected ear upward
- For adults: Gently pull earlobe backward and upward
- For children >3yrs: Pull earlobe backward and downward
5 Administering Drops
- Hold dropper 1cm above ear canal (don't touch ear)
- Gently squeeze to release 4 drops
- If drops miss canal, repeat process (don't exceed single dose)
Post-Application Care
6 Absorption Time
- Maintain head tilt for 3-5 minutes
- Gently press tragus (ear flap) several times to help drops penetrate
- Place clean cotton ball loosely at ear opening (don't push in)
7 Aftercare
- Wipe excess fluid with clean tissue (no cotton buds)
- Wait 10 minutes before applying other ear medications
- Keep ear dry for 1 hour post-application
- Replace dropper cap immediately after use
Dosage & Treatment Duration
| Patient Group | Dose | Frequency | Max Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults & Children >3yrs | 4 drops | 2-3 times daily | 7 days |
| Children 1-3yrs* | 3 drops | 2 times daily | 5 days |
*Use only under medical supervision - off-label in some countries
- No improvement after 48 hours
- Symptoms worsen at any point
- Ear discharge develops
Common Mistakes To Avoid
❌ Using Cold Drops
Causes vertigo/dizziness. Always warm to body temperature first.
❌ Touching Dropper to Ear
Contaminates the solution. Hold 1cm above canal.
❌ Incorrect Head Position
Drops may not reach middle ear. Maintain tilt for 3-5 minutes.
❌ Exceeding Recommended Duration
Risk of masking underlying infection. Max 7 days unless directed.
FAQs
Can I use Otigo if I have ear tubes (grommets)?
No - Ear tubes indicate tympanic perforation. Otigo may:
- Cause pain/vertigo by reaching inner ear
- Interfere with tube function
- Increase infection risk
Consult your ENT specialist for alternatives.
Why do I feel dizzy after using Otigo?
Possible reasons:
- Cold drops: Always warm bottle first
- Over-insertion: Dropper touching eardrum
- Undiagnosed perforation: Requires immediate medical review
If dizziness persists >30 minutes, seek medical help.
Can I use Otigo with other ear drops?
With precautions:
- Antibiotic drops: Wait 10 minutes between applications (Otigo first)
- Steroid drops: Consult doctor - may increase absorption
- Hydrogen peroxide: Never combine - deactivates lidocaine
Always inform your doctor about all ear medications.
Can I use Otigo for swimmer's ear?
Otigo is not appropriate for:
- Bacterial infections (swimmer's ear/otitis externa)
- Fungal ear infections
It's only for pain relief in acute otitis media with intact eardrum. Using it for infections may delay proper treatment.
What should I do if I accidentally use too much?
If you exceed the recommended dose:
- Don't panic - Single overdoses are rarely dangerous
- Wipe excess with clean tissue
- Monitor for dizziness or hearing changes
- Contact NHS 111 if symptoms develop
The main risk is temporary vertigo from fluid overload in the ear canal.
 | Authored by Nabeel |
Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
 | Reviewed by Dr. Feroz (GMC:7921697) |
Medical Doctor
Dr. Feroz is a GMC-registered doctor and a medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He oversees acute condition and urgent care guidance.
 | Approved by Usman |
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 12 August 2025
Next Review: 14 February 2026
Published on: 11 August 2025
Last Updated: 12 August 2025
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