Acetic acid is typically combined with hydrocortisone to treat problems in the ear canal, such as swimmer’s ear. Vitamin B-2 is a B complex vitamin, also known as riboflavin, that protects your cells from free radicals and contributes to growth and red blood cell production. Certain medications may lower your levels of B-2, but acetic acid is not typically one of them. However, acetic acid can interact with other drugs.
Interactions with Acetic Acid
Acetic acid comes in a solution that you place directly in your ear canal. It treats and prevents the growth of bacteria that can lead to swimmer’s ear and other infections of the ear canal. It is available only with a prescription. This medication may interact with other drugs, such as the rotavirus vaccine, aldesleukin, bupropion, quetiapine and corticosteroids. You may also increase your risk of side effects if you take it at the same time as a variety of other medications, so tell your doctor what else you are consuming before you begin using acetic acid.
Interactions with Vitamin B-2
Some medications can lower the amount of vitamin B-2 in your body or inhibit your body’s ability to absorb it from the foods you eat. These include tetracycline, antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, doxorubicin, methotrexate, diuretics and anti-seizure medications. Additionally, if you have an infection in your ear or other part of your body, this may increase your need for B-2, and if this need is not met, you may develop a deficiency. If you have or are at risk for a deficiency, your doctor may prescribe B-2 supplements. While these are not known to interact with medications, tell your doctor if you are using any others, including acetic acid.
Side Effects of Acetic Acid
Acetic acid can cause some unwanted side effects, particularly if you take it with certain medications. These side effects may include stinging, itching, irritation or burning in your ear. If given to a child, it may cause weakness, anorexia and weight loss. You may experience other side effects, such as an allergic reaction. If this occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, if your condition does not improve within a week of using acetic acid, see your doctor.
Symptoms of a B-2 Deficiency
A vitamin B-2 deficiency is not common among those who follow a balanced diet. If you develop a deficiency due to medications or a poor diet, you may experience symptoms of fatigue, impaired growth, digestive upset, sores around your mouth, a swollen tongue, eye fatigue and a sore, swollen throat.
B-2 Side Effects
If you are taking B-2 supplements, the most common side effect is very yellow urine, but this is not serious. However, if you consume large doses of supplements, you may experience itching, burning or prickling sensations in your body, including your ears. Since this can be similar to a side effect of acetic acid, see a medical professional for a confirmed diagnosis.
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