Can pregnant women use ofloxacin ear drops?

Jul 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My wife is five months pregnant. She’s been experiencing ear pain lately, possibly due to “internal heat.” We’d like to know whether it’s safe for a pregnant woman to use ofloxacin ear drops.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
Pregnant women should not use ofloxacin ear drops. This medication is a quinolone-class antibiotic with local anti-inflammatory and anti-infective effects. However, it is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it can be absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes into the bloodstream and subsequently cross the placenta to reach the fetus, potentially affecting fetal development. Therefore, its use during pregnancy is typically contraindicated. If a pregnant woman develops an illness, she should promptly seek medical care at a hospital and follow her physician’s guidance for appropriate treatment.