• What is Otinova and how does it work?
Otinova is an easy to use antibacterial and antifungal spray which treats otitis externa. The aluminium acetate formula is locally drying, soothes itching and has a bactericidal and fungicidal effect. The low pH of Otinova may help with the removal of moisture in the ear canal related to swimmer’s ear. Overall, the product provides an astringent effect on the inflamed tissue on the ear canal, thereby reducing its volume and offering a soothing effect on the itching associated with the otitis externa condition.
• What can you do to try and prevent swimmer’s ear?
Try to avoid unnecessary contact with water and try to gently wipe ears dry after contact with the water. Don’t poke anything in your ears such as cotton buds and try to avoid irritants such as hairspray near your ears. Finally get your ears checked regularly by an audiologist to make sure there is no wax build up, as this can trap water in the ear.
• Is Otinova suitable for everyone?
Otinova is recommended for children over the age of 5, presenting with symptoms of ear canal inflammation. It is particularly beneficial for those who swim, dive or are regularly exposed to water, prefer to avoid use of antibiotics and steroids and who have regular issues with their ears when on a beach or pool holiday. It can also help those who suffer with ear inflammation due to wearing in ear headphones or hearing aids. It should never be used in patients who have perforated ear drums.
• When should Otinova not be used?
Do not use Otinova if you have an allergy to aluminium. If you are unsure, we recommend a skin patch test before use. Otinova cannot be used with a perforated ear drum. Do not use for more than 7 days. If symptoms persist, contact your doctor.
• Is swimmer’s ear a common condition?
The diagnosis of otitis externa is one of the most frequent infections in primary care and affects up to 1 in 10 of the population every year. The condition is more likely to occur in women than men and is most often diagnosed in adults 45-75 years of age. People with certain long term (chronic) conditions are at greater risk of developing the condition. These include eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• What’s the story behind Kestrel Medical?
Kestrel Medical Ltd was set up by Ian Ponsford in 2001. He was soon joined by his daughter and then his son and it still a family run business today. Focused on ENT, we have three products in our range, Vocalzone Throat Pastilles, Otovent for Glue Ear and Otinova.
• Where can I find out more about Kestrel Medical?
Each of our product ranges have their own web sites with full information on each one and what they are for. If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to give us a call or drop us an email.
