• Treats both fungal and bacterial ear infections
  • Quickly relieves pain swelling and itching
  • Effective for treatment-resistant infections

How it works?

Online Consultation

We ask you to complete a quick and easy consultation and get you started.

Choose condition

We have a selection of treatments available for various conditions.

Express Delivery

You will have complete visibility and control of your delivery.
Notice!

Before ordering this treatment, you may have to complete an online consultation

Overview

Locorten-Vioform (Flumetasone with Clioquinol) ear drops combine a steroid and an antifungal/antibacterial agent to treat stubborn outer ear infections.
They work by easing inflammation and targeting both bacteria and fungi — making them especially effective if the cause of infection isn’t clear.


What are Flumetasone with Clioquinol Ear Drops


Otitis externa can cause severe earache, constant itching, discharge, and temporary hearing loss. Locorten-Vioform provides a broad-spectrum solution that tackles multiple possible causes of infection at once.

Each drop contains:

  • Flumetasone pivalate: a corticosteroid that reduces swelling, redness, and irritation.
  • Clioquinol: an antifungal and antibacterial agent that clears both fungal and bacterial infections.


This dual approach makes Locorten-Vioform particularly useful when the infection may be mixed or when standard treatments haven’t worked. Most people experience improvement in just a few days, with full relief after a full course.

Directions

  • Usually 2–3 drops into the affected ear twice daily, or as directed by your prescriber.
  • Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.
  • Avoid prolonged use unless specifically instructed.

Side Effects

Most people tolerate Locorten-Vioform well, but side effects may occur.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Mild irritation or stinging in the ear
  • Temporary itching


Less common (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Skin rash around the ear
  • Thinning of the skin with prolonged use (due to the steroid)


Rare but serious (seek urgent medical advice):

  • Severe allergic reaction (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
  • Worsening pain or hearing changes


Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine for full details. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, stop using the drops and seek medical advice promptly. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

  • Not suitable if allergic to flumetasone, clioquinol, or iodine-based medicines.
  • Avoid if you have a perforated eardrum unless prescribed by a specialist.
  • Prolonged use may increase the risk of secondary infections.
Frequently asked questions
  • What are flumetasone pivalate with clioquinol ear drops and how do they work?

    These ear drops contain flumetasone, a steroid that reduces swelling and itching, and clioquinol, which treats bacterial and fungal infections. They are useful when otitis externa involves both inflammation and infection. As swelling settles, discomfort, discharge and irritation usually improve within a few days.

  • How quickly do these drops start to relieve symptoms?

    Many people notice reduced itching and discomfort within one to two days. Improvement in swelling and discharge usually follows over several days. A clinician should review your symptoms if they worsen or do not begin improving within 72 hours, as alternative treatment may be required.

  • How should I use flumetasone with clioquinol ear drops correctly?

    Warm the bottle in your hands, tilt your head and apply 2–3 drops twice daily for 7–10 days into the ear canal. Stay in position for a few minutes to allow the drops to spread. Do not insert cotton buds or objects into the ear, as this can worsen inflammation or infection.

  • Do these ear drops treat fungal ear infections?

    Yes. Clioquinol has antifungal as well as antibacterial action, making these drops suitable when the cause of otitis externa is uncertain or mixed. If symptoms become more itchy or discharge changes colour, a clinician may reassess for fungal dominance and adjust treatment if needed.

  • Can I use these drops if my ear canal is swollen or feels blocked?

    They may still be effective, but significant swelling can prevent drops reaching the deeper canal. Some people require ear cleaning or a wick to improve penetration of medication.Seek review if swelling remains severe or if hearing does not improve after a few days of treatment.

  • Can I use flumetasone with clioquinol in both ears?

    Yes, if prescribed for both ears. When both sides are affected, underlying factors like eczema, allergies or repeated water exposure should be considered. Your clinician may also provide advice on preventing flare-ups once the infection has cleared.

  • Can these ear drops cause staining of the skin or clothing?

    Yes. Clioquinol can cause yellow staining of the ear canal or surrounding skin. This is harmless and usually fades, but it can mark clothing or pillowcases. Using a small amount of petroleum jelly around the ear opening may help protect the skin.

  • Are these drops safe if I have eczema in the ear canal?

    Yes. Because flumetasone reduces inflammation and clioquinol treats infection, the drops are often used when eczema makes the canal prone to bacterial or fungal overgrowth. Persistent or recurrent dryness or itching may require separate eczema management once the infection settles.

  • What should I do if the drops cause burning or irritation?

    Mild stinging is common when the canal is inflamed, but persistent burning or worsening discomfort may indicate sensitivity to an ingredient. Stop treatment and seek advice if symptoms continue, especially if redness or swelling increases.

  • Can I use flumetasone with clioquinol after swimming or frequent water exposure?

    These drops are often used when water exposure contributes to recurrent otitis externa. While treating the infection, keep the ear completely dry. Once recovered, moisture-avoidance measures such as ear plugs or drying the outer ear can help prevent future flare-ups.

  • Can I use headphones, earphones or hearing aids during treatment?

    It is better to avoid them during infection because they trap heat and moisture and may slow healing. Once symptoms improve and the infection clears, you can gradually resume use. If discomfort returns, seek further advice.

  • Do these drops affect hearing?

    They do not harm hearing when used correctly. A temporary muffled sensation is common due to swelling, discharge or the presence of the drops themselves. Hearing usually returns to normal as the canal heals. If it worsens, seek medical assessment.

  • How long should I use flumetasone with clioquinol?

    Treatment is usually prescribed for about seven days. Prolonged use is avoided because steroids can thin the delicate canal skin. If symptoms are not improving by around day three, a clinician should reassess your ear.

  • Can these drops be used after ear microsuction?

    Yes. They are commonly prescribed after microsuction to treat inflammation and remove residual infection. Mild sensitivity after the procedure is normal and usually improves as the drops take effect.

  • What should I do if flumetasone with clioquinol does not improve my symptoms?

    If symptoms do not begin improving within two to three days, consult a clinician. You may need an alternative antibiotic, an antifungal treatment, a steroid-only drop or further examination of the ear canal.

Related Treatments for Ear Infection