Boric Acid
Boric Acid is an antiseptic agent used in otic preparations for treating ear conditions, particularly external ear infections. It works by creating an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi. This medication is typically prescribed for conditions affecting the outer ear canal and is available in topical otic solution form.
Boric Acid is an antiseptic ear medication used to treat and prevent external ear infections by creating an environment hostile to bacteria and fungi.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- S02
- RxNorm
- unknown
- Generic
- Boric Acid
- Class
- atc-s02
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- unsafe
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical, ophthalmic
- Forms
- powder, solution
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Europe
- Monitoring
- none
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 600mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily at bedtime
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Not recommended
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- N/A
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 600mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily at bedtime
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteravoid
discontinue use during second and third trimester
fetal wellbeing monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
do not use while breastfeeding - passes into breast milk
monitor infant for symptoms
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
infants under 2 yearsavoid completely
not for use in infants and young children due to immature skin barrier and higher absorption
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children 2 12 yearsreduce dose and frequency
use only under medical supervision with reduced concentration and duration
monitor for skin irritation and systemic absorption
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly over 65reduce dose
use lower concentration and shorter treatment duration due to thinner skin and increased permeability
monitor for skin reactions and systemic effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild moderatemonitor closely
use with caution and monitor renal function - drug is excreted by kidneys
monitor renal function and serum levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeavoid
avoid use in severe renal impairment due to significantly reduced excretion
renal function monitoring required if use is necessary
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
any severitymonitor
use with caution - hepatic metabolism plays minor role but monitor for adverse effects
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
Historical prescribing information for antiseptic use
Drug class
Drug class classification
Common uses
Common therapeutic applications
Common formulations
Available dosage forms
Treatment of otitis externa (swimmer's ear), ear canal infections, and as an antiseptic for minor ear conditions. May also be used for ear hygiene and to help prevent recurrence of fungal or bacterial ear infections.
Functions as an antiseptic and mild astringent by acidifying the ear canal environment, which inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeast that typically cause external ear infections.
For topical otic use only. Should not be used if the eardrum is perforated or if there is discharge from the ear. Avoid contact with eyes. Patients with a history of ear surgery or chronic ear conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use. Not for ingestion.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy