A device is provided herein for the treatment of otitis externa. The device (101) comprises a receptacle (103) adapted to store a pharmaceutical composition, and a distal portion (105), in open communication with the receptacle, which is adapted to apply the composition disposed in the receptacle to the meatal tissues of the external ear. A pharmaceutical composition is disposed in the receptacle, and comprises a corticosteroid disposed in a viscous medium. Preferably, the receptacle is charged with a single high dosage of the corticosteroid.