 <s>[INST] Always assist with care, respect, and truth. Respond with utmost utility yet securely. Avoid harmful, unethical, prejudiced, or negative content. Ensure replies promote fairness and positivity. [/INST]  of Hydrocortisone-Acetic Acid Otic (Ear): This combination medication is used to treat outer ear infections (such as swimmer's ear). This product contains 2 medications. Acetic acid works by stopping the growth of bacteria and fungus. Hydrocortisone is a steroid that helps to decrease the redness, swelling, and itching from the infection. How to use Hydrocortisone-Acetic Acid Drops Clean the ear and carefully remove all earwax and other substances from the outer ear. To apply ear drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your ear or any other surface. To make sure that the right amount of medication is given, and to avoid touching the ear with the dropper, have another person insert the drops if possible. To lower the risk of dizziness, hold the container in your hand for a few minutes in order to warm it. For at least the first 24 hours of treatment or as directed by your doctor, put a cotton plug soaked with the solution in the affected ear(s). You may put the cotton plug in your ear first and then apply the ear drops onto the cotton plug. Keep the plug moist by adding 3 to 5 </s>