
The following links provide further information on how to apply ear drops.
Don’t use expired ear drops, as they can be contaminated and cause infection. If the drops have expired, throw them away.
Ask your pharmacist about the expiration date and also check the expiration date on the label. Check with your healthcare provider how long to use them for. Ear drops are usually used for a short time only. Ear drops may cause mild stinging, irritation and discomfort, but if you experience severe pain and discomfort, contact your healthcare provider. Just wipe the outside of your ear with a clean cloth or tissue if any discharge appears or medication spill occurs.
Do not try to clean inside your ear with cotton buds, they can damage and irritate the inflamed skin, and make things worse. These ear drops are available only on prescription from your doctor.įor treatment of mild ear infection and discomfort of the outer ear (called otitis externa) - usually caused by water in the ear, ear drops such as Vosol®, can be from your pharmacy. Examples include Ciproxin HC®, Sofradex®, Locacorten-Vioform®, and Kenacomb®. Antibiotic ear drops can also include a steroid to reduce swelling from ear infections. Some ear drops contain antibiotics to treat infection in the outer ear ( otitis externa) such as Soframycin®.
Treat ear infections, inflammation or eczema Speak to your pharmacist about the best product for you.
Drops for softening ear wax can be bought from your pharmacy, such as Waxsol® or Cerumol®.Įar drops aren't suitable for everyone and shouldn't be used if you have a perforated eardrum (a hole or tear in your eardrum). Ear wax can be softened using warm olive oil ear drops or almond oil ear drops. If the wax builds up it can cause discomfort, pain and hearing loss. Ear wax traps dust and other debris, and gradually works its way to the entrance of your ear canal, where it escapes. Our ear canals produce ear wax, which lines the ear canal and keeps them clean. They are used if medication needs to work directly in the ear, such as to: Soften and remove ear wax Read more about how to give ear drops to children - How to give ear drops Medicines for Children, UKĮar drops are liquid medicine, to be put into the ear. Wipe the dropper with a clear tissue after each use and replace the cap. If your child needs the drops in both ears, repeat in the other ear. Ask your child to lie on their side or keep their head tilted for a minute. Don't let the tip of the dropper touch the ear. Gently squeeze the dropper into the ear to give the correct number of drops. Place the tip of the dropper gently just inside the ear hole. Its best if your child is lying down on their side with their head on a pillow, or have your child tilt their head to one side. For babies or small children, you can wrap them up in a blanket to keep them still. Reassure your child that this may feel a bit uncomfortable but it will not hurt. If both ears are being treated, turn over and repeat after 5 minutes.Īpplying ear drops in babies and some children can be tricky, because they wriggle. Put the correct number of drops in your ear. Gently pull your earlobe to straighten the ear canal. Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up. Do not warm the ear drops under hot water. Warm the ear drops by holding the container in your hand for a few minutes. Ask your healthcare provider to show you. The following is a guide: It is important to use the correct technique to make sure you get the right amount of medication. Ear drops are used if medication needs to work directly in the ear.