Ear Drops May Lead to Resistant Bacteria

Eardrops, widely prescribed for the treatment of pediatric ear infection, can lead to an increase in resistant bacteria and fungi in the ear, according to Glenn Isaacson, MD, professor and chair of otolaryngology/head and neck surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia.

Isaacson presented his findings Jan. 25 at the Eastern Sectional Meeting of the Society of Laryngology, Otology and Rhinology.
 

A pilot study, which found a link between eardrops and ear fungus in children who had undergone ear tube surgery, prompted researchers to explore the link further. In examining samples from children taken before and after the introduction of the eardrops, they discovered a significant increase in resistant bacteria and fungi in children who had used the eardrops.

To combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria, experts recommend prescribing antibiotics judiciously and targeting them specifically to the individual types of bacteria.

Overall, Isaacson recommends avoiding antibiotics when infections are minor; using oral antibiotics for ear infection in young children; using ear drops for ear infection in older children judiciously, and combining ear drainage and antibiotics for recurring ear infections.

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