 <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]  and then apply the ear drops onto the cotton plug. Keep the plug moist by adding 3 to 5 drops of the medication as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 to 6 hours. After removing the plug, continue to apply the medication directly into the ear as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times daily. Lie on your side or tilt the affected ear upward. Hold the dropper directly over the ear, and place the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal. To help the drops roll into the ear of an adult, hold the earlobe up and back. In children, hold the earlobe down and back. Keep the head tilted for about 2 minutes. Repeat for the other ear if so directed. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the cap after use. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping this medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection. Do not use this medication more often or longer than prescribed. Unnecessary use or misuse of this medication can lead to its decreased effectiveness </s>