OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC) PRODUCTS FOR EARWAX

Photo Courtesy of Didier Descouens

For impacted cerumen, softening agents are available in drugstore as Over-The-Counter products.

1.    Hydrogen Peroxide.

-It is a component of carbamide peroxide with weak antibacterial properties. To use as otic solution, it must be diluted with 1:1 ratio with warm water. Instill in the ear to soften the cerumen and aid in its removal.

2.    Carbamide peroxide

Dosage: Tilt head sideways and instill 5-10 drops in the ear. Do not insert applicator tip in the ear canal. Keep head tilted for several minutes before turning to the other side & repeating for the other ear. Insert cotton wool to keep drops in the ear. Use twice daily (bid) for up to 4 days.”

Contraindication: Not to be use for patients with perforated eardrum or with inflamed ear. For children under 12 years old with suspected cerumen impaction, a doctor should be consulted.

Brand available: Ear Clear® 

3.    Mineral Oil is recommended in removal of impacted cerumen. Instill 2 drops, once per week. 

4.    Olive Oil, also soften earwax and can ease itching.

Other common ear disorders except Excessive/impacted cerumen (earwax) are:

1.    Vertigo

2.    Tinnitus

3.    External Otitis

4.    Water-clogged Ear

5.    Furuncles

6.    Otitis Media