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Why do I feel ear pain despite taking ear drops for 3 days?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am taking medicine as prescribed by my doctor because my left ear is in pain. I am taking Clindamycin and Ofloxacin drops for three days now. Please tell me, is it normal that I still feel the pain in my ears?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Bindia

Education:

MS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Bindia is a skilled Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist) dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions. With strong expertise in both medical and surgical care, she provides comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Known for her compassionate approach and clear communication, Dr. Bindia ensures that patients feel comfortable and well-informed throughout their care. She is committed to delivering personalized, advanced treatments that improve health, function, and overall quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It is fairly common to still feel some ear pain after three days of using Clindamycin (a lincosamide antibiotic) and Ofloxacin (fluoroquinolone antibiotic) ear drops. These antibiotic drops typically start reducing symptoms within two to three days, but full relief may take longer depending on the severity of the infection. Clindamycin is less commonly used as an ear drop and more often may be prescribed orally or for specific infections, while Ofloxacin ear drops are commonly recommended for outer and middle ear infections and can start improving symptoms within a few days.

Patients often notice significant improvement after about four days of treatment. But it is important to complete the entire prescribed course to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent recurrence.

If the pain persists beyond one week or worsens, it is advisable to consult your doctor for further evaluation. The continued presence of pain after three days does not necessarily mean the treatment is ineffective, but monitoring and follow-up with your healthcare provider are important.

Therefore, feeling ear pain after three days of treatment with Clindamycin and Ofloxacin drops can be within normal expectations. You should continue both Clindamycin and Ofloxacin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Compliance with the full course of antibiotic treatment is important to effectively clear the infection and prevent recurrence.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Bindia
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At January 21, 2026
Reviewed At January 22, 2026

Education:

MS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Bindia is a skilled Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist) dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions. With strong expertise in both medical and surgical care, she provides comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Known for her compassionate approach and clear communication, Dr. Bindia ensures that patients feel comfortable and well-informed throughout their care. She is committed to delivering personalized, advanced treatments that improve health, function, and overall quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance. Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

Education:

MS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Bindia is a skilled Otolaryngologist (ENT Specialist) dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions. With strong expertise in both medical and surgical care, she provides comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Known for her compassionate approach and clear communication, Dr. Bindia ensures that patients feel comfortable and well-informed throughout their care. She is committed to delivering personalized, advanced treatments that improve health, function, and overall quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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