Effective pharmaceutical management of Acute Otitis Externa: guidance and prescribing considerations

Abstract

Acute Otitis Externa is a common condition observed by physicians, particularly in primary care. The condition usually occurs due to bacterial infection, so antibiotic therapy is frequently indicated. Oral antibiotics are rarely necessary but are still being prescribed, despite a wide range of available topical preparations. Choosing a topical preparation can sometimes be challenging for prescribers, however, consideration of a range of different factors is necessary. This article provides a review of the currently recommended prescribing practice and outlines key topical antibiotic ear preparations available in the UK for treatment of Acute Otitis Externa. As no one topical ear preparation is more effective than another, a consideration of the benefits and risks of each treatment is needed to enable therapeutic resolution of Acute Otitis Externa. Furthermore, patient compliance should be adequately considered to increase the likelihood of patient adherence to treatment.