Stafford-Miller has launched Ear Calm — a new product for the treatment of superficial infections of the external auditory canal. The pharmacy-only product contains acetic acid 2 per cent. The company says that acetic acid is antibacterial and antifungal and is reported to be active against haemophilus, pseudomonas, candida and trichomonas species. Adults and children aged 12 years and above should spray one metered dose (60mg) into each affected ear three times daily (morning, evening and after swimming, showering or bathing). The maximum dosage frequency is one spray every two to three hours. Treatment should be continued until two days after symptoms have disappeared, but for no longer than seven days. Patients who are known to have a perforated ear drum should only use the product under medical supervision. The product should be discarded within one month of first use (net price, 5ml pump-action spray £3.80, retail price, £6.38).