Indications
Phenazone (also called antipyrine) is a pain and fever reliever. Today it is mainly used in ear drops, usually combined with the local anaesthetic Lidocaine, to relieve pain in the ear from inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media) or ear injury from pressure changes, where the eardrum is not damaged. It is also found in some oral pain-relief combinations and in some animal-health products; always follow the label of the product you have.
How It Works
Phenazone reduces the production of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, swelling and fever. In ear drops it acts locally on the inflamed ear canal and eardrum to ease pain.
Dosage and Administration
For ear drops, the usual adult dose is 4 drops into the affected ear 2 to 3 times a day, for no more than 10 days, or as directed on the label. Warm the bottle in your hand first, tilt the head and stay lying on your side for a minute after use. For other forms (tablets or animal products), use as directed on the label or by your doctor or veterinarian.
Interactions
Interactions are unlikely with ear drops. With oral use, it may add to the effects of other pain relievers and blood thinners such as Warfarin, and enzyme inducers such as Rifampicin may change its levels. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Phenazone, other pyrazolone medicines or any ingredient. Do not put ear drops in the ear if the eardrum is torn or perforated, or if there is discharge from the ear.
Side Effects
Ear drops may cause local irritation, redness or itching of the ear. Oral use may cause stomach upset, skin rash and, rarely, blood disorders.
Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread rash or blistering, or fever with sore throat and mouth ulcers after taking it by mouth.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Ear drops are absorbed very little and are generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed, but ask your doctor first. Oral Phenazone should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
Have your ear checked by a doctor before using ear drops to make sure the eardrum is intact. Stop and see a doctor if pain lasts more than a few days or there is fever, discharge or hearing loss. Ear drops may give a positive result in sports doping tests. Do not use products made for animals in humans.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely with ear drops. Large oral doses can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness and, rarely, seizures; seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Analgesic and antipyretic (pyrazolone class); otic pain reliever.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Use ear drops within the time stated on the label after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.