Indications
Carbamide peroxide (also called urea hydrogen peroxide) is used as ear drops to soften, loosen and help remove hardened earwax. It is also used in some tooth-whitening gels and mouth products used under dental guidance.
How It Works
When carbamide peroxide touches earwax and moisture, it releases oxygen and urea. The oxygen produces gentle fizzing that breaks up the wax, while the urea softens it. The softened wax can then come out by itself or be washed out more easily.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label or by your doctor. For adults and children over 12 years, ear drops are usually used as 5 to 10 drops in the affected ear twice a day for up to 4 days. Tilt the head with the affected ear up, put in the drops, and stay in that position for several minutes, or place a little cotton wool loosely in the ear. Afterwards, wax may be gently rinsed out with warm water using a soft rubber bulb syringe if advised. Do not put cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal. Children under 12 should use it only on medical advice.
Interactions
No important interactions with medicines are known. Do not use other ear drops at the same time unless your doctor advises it.
Contraindications
- Allergy to carbamide peroxide or any ingredient.
- A perforated (burst) eardrum, grommets or ear tubes, or recent ear surgery.
- Ear infection, ear discharge, ear pain, rash in the ear, or dizziness.
Side Effects
A fizzing or crackling sound and a feeling of fullness in the ear are normal. Mild irritation, redness or a temporary decrease in hearing (until the wax clears) may occur.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe ear pain, bleeding or discharge from the ear, sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, or signs of allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. See a doctor if the earwax problem continues after 4 days.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Very little is absorbed from ear drops, and they are not expected to harm the unborn or breastfed baby. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use.
Precautions and Warnings
- For use in the ear only; do not swallow and keep away from the eyes.
- Do not use for more than 4 days without medical advice.
- If you have had ear problems before, a doctor should check the ear first.
- Tooth-whitening products should be used only as directed; overuse can make the teeth sensitive and irritate the gums.
Overdose
Using too much in the ear may increase irritation. If the solution is swallowed, rinse the mouth and drink some water; seek medical advice if a large amount is swallowed or symptoms develop.
Therapeutic Class
Ceruminolytic (earwax softener); oxidising agent.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and heat, with the cap tightly closed, out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.