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- Otex Ear Drops – 8ml
Otex Ear Drops 8ml are medicated ear drops designed to help break down and remove hardened ear wax. Their clinically proven dual-action formula works to break accumulated wax into smaller pieces, helping it disperse from the ear canal more easily.
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is naturally produced to protect and lubricate the ear canal. However, excessive wax can sometimes become hard and compacted, causing a feeling of fullness, discomfort or muffled hearing.
Otex contains urea hydrogen peroxide 5% w/w, an ingredient that releases oxygen as it acts on hardened ear wax. This helps break up wax deposits and may reduce the need for professional ear wax removal.
The drops are supplied in a convenient 8ml easy-squeeze bottle with an applicator nozzle.
Otex is a Pharmacy (P) medicine available through pharmacies following appropriate suitability checks.
Benefits of Otex Ear Drops
- Helps break down hardened ear wax.
- Softens and disperses accumulated wax.
- May relieve blocked-ear symptoms caused by wax build-up.
- Can reduce the need for ear syringing.
- Contains a clinically proven active ingredient.
- Comes in a convenient easy-squeeze bottle.
- Suitable for adults, children and older people, subject to safety precautions.
- Usually works over three to four days.
Important: Otex is intended for hardened ear wax removal. It does not treat ear infections or other underlying ear conditions.
Active Ingredient
Urea Hydrogen Peroxide 5% w/w
Urea hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen when it comes into contact with ear wax, helping break down hardened wax into smaller pieces so it can disperse more easily.
Other Ingredients
Glycerol – Helps form the viscous solution and retain the drops in the ear canal.
8-Hydroxyquinoline – An additional ingredient in the formulation.
Do not use Otex if you are allergic to urea hydrogen peroxide or any of the other ingredients.
How to Use Otex Ear Drops
Adults, children and older people:
Instil up to five drops into the affected ear once or twice daily, normally for three to four days.
Follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash your hands before using the drops.
- Turn the cap anticlockwise to break the seal when opening the bottle for the first time.
- Remove the cap to reveal the applicator nozzle.
- Tilt your head sideways so the affected ear faces upwards.
- Gently squeeze up to five drops into the affected ear.
- Keep your head tilted for several minutes to allow the drops to remain in the ear.
- Wipe away any excess liquid with a clean tissue.
- Repeat in the other ear if necessary.
- Wash your hands after application.
- Replace the cap tightly and return the bottle to its carton.
Do not plug the ear with loose cotton wool after applying the drops.
Avoid inserting the nozzle deeply into the ear canal.
How Often Should Otex Be Used?
Use once or twice daily for approximately three to four days.
Some cases of very hard or compacted wax may require professional removal even after the drops have softened it.
If symptoms persist, worsen or fail to improve within a reasonable period, consult a pharmacist, nurse or doctor.
Who Can Use Otex?
Otex is suitable for:
Adults: When there are no contraindications.
Older people: When used according to the instructions.
Children: The licensed product information includes children without specifying a minimum age.
For young children, particularly those under five, obtain professional advice before use to confirm that wax build-up is the cause of the symptoms.
Children should use the drops with appropriate adult supervision.
When Not to Use Otex
Do not use Otex if:
- You are allergic to urea hydrogen peroxide or any other ingredient.
- Your eardrum is damaged or has previously been damaged.
- You experience dizziness.
- You have ear pain, swelling, discharge, inflammation or infection.
- You experience tinnitus (ringing or other sounds in the ears).
- You have a history of ear problems unless treatment is closely supervised by a healthcare professional.
- You are putting anything else into the ear, including other ear drops or a hearing aid.
- You have recently attempted to remove wax using fingernails, cotton buds or similar objects.
- You have undergone ear syringing within the previous two to three days.
If you have grommets, have undergone ear surgery or are unsure about the condition of your eardrum, seek medical advice before use.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
According to the manufacturer's patient information leaflet, Otex can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The ingredients have been widely used in this and similar preparations without reports of problems, although specific safety trials have not been conducted.
If you have concerns about using Otex during pregnancy or breastfeeding, consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional.
Possible Side Effects
Temporary bubbling sensation: Mild fizzing or bubbling may occur as oxygen is released while the drops act on hardened wax.
Ear irritation: Some users may experience temporary irritation or discomfort.
Ear pain: Discomfort or pain may occur, particularly if the ear canal is already irritated or damaged.
Temporary hearing changes: As wax softens and moves, hearing may temporarily become more muffled.
Dizziness: Some users may experience dizziness or worsening dizziness.
Tinnitus: Ringing or other noises in the ear may occur or worsen.
Unpleasant taste: This has been reported very rarely. Stop using Otex immediately and inform your doctor if it occurs.
When to Stop Using Otex
Stop using the drops and seek professional advice if you experience:
- Significant or worsening ear pain.
- Persistent irritation or swelling.
- Ear discharge or bleeding.
- Dizziness or vertigo.
- New or worsening tinnitus.
- Significant hearing deterioration.
- An unpleasant taste after application.
- Signs of an allergic reaction.
- Sudden hearing loss requires urgent medical assessment. Do not assume that it is caused by ear wax.
If you experience a suspected side effect, you can report it through the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard
Storage Instructions
- Store below 25°C.
- Keep the bottle upright.
- Store in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep the bottle in its original carton.
- Replace the cap tightly after use.
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton.
- Discard the bottle four weeks after opening.
- Do not dispose of unused medicines through wastewater. Ask your pharmacist about appropriate disposal.
Frequently asked questions
What are Otex Ear Drops used for?
Otex Ear Drops are used to help remove hardened ear wax from the ear canal. They break down compacted wax, making it easier to disperse or remove.
How does Otex work?
Otex contains urea hydrogen peroxide, which releases oxygen and helps break hardened ear wax into smaller pieces.
How many drops of Otex should I use?
Use up to five drops in the affected ear at each application.
How often should I use Otex?
Use the drops once or twice daily, according to the patient information leaflet.
How long does Otex take to work?
Treatment normally takes three to four days. The time required depends on how much wax is present and how hard it has become.
Is Otex suitable for children?
The licensed product information includes children. However, parents should seek professional advice before treating young children, particularly those under five.
What is the difference between Otex Ear Drops and Otex Express?
Both contain urea hydrogen peroxide 5% w/w and help break down hardened ear wax. Standard Otex Ear Drops 8ml are a Pharmacy medicine, while Otex Express 10ml is marketed as a medical device.
How long can I keep Otex after opening?
Discard the bottle four weeks after first opening, even if some solution remains.
