A sudden earache is a very annoying thing, isn't it? It's especially hard for parents to watch their little ones suffer when something like this happens. Sometimes, it feels uncomfortable when the ear is full of ear wax. So, in times like these, a doctor may recommend ear drops, which are a combination of two medicines called Antipyrine and Benzocaine. Today, we'll talk about how to use this medicine exactly and what you need to be careful about.
What is this Antipyrine; Benzocaine?
Simply put, this is a combination of two types of medication.
1. Antipyrine: This works by reducing pain and swelling in the ear. It's like a painkiller.
2. Benzocaine: This is a local anesthetic, meaning it numbs the inside of the ear. This quickly relieves the pain.
When these two are combined, they provide great relief from minor earaches and itching. Also, this medicine is sometimes used to soften and easily remove ear wax that has become lodged in the ear.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, it is very important to know the complete details of your or your child's health condition. Because in some cases this medicine may not be suitable. Therefore, if any of the things below apply to you, be sure to inform your doctor about it.
- If there is fluid coming out of the ear: If there is a pus-like fluid coming out of the ear, it may mean that there is an infection or other problem inside. In such cases, it is not advisable to use these ear drops.
- If you suspect a perforated eardrum: If you apply this medicine when the eardrum is perforated, it may travel to the middle ear and cause further damage.
- If you have allergies to Antipyrine, Benzocaine, or other medications: If you have experienced any skin reactions, itching, or swelling after using these medications in the past, you should tell your doctor.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is essential to consult your doctor before using any medication during this time.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: Some medications you are taking can pass to your baby through breast milk, so tell your doctor about this as well.
Remember, the more honestly you talk to your doctor about your health history, the safer and more successful the treatment you receive.
How do you use these ear drops exactly?
It is very important to know exactly how to use this medicine. If used incorrectly, it will not produce the desired results.
1. Cleanliness first: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.
2. Warm the medicine (Optional): Hold the medicine bottle in your hand for a minute or two to warm it up a bit. This will help relieve the discomfort of putting cold liquid in your ear. Never heat it by putting it in hot water.
3. Correct posture: Lie down with the ear you want to administer the medicine on facing up. For a small child, you can even have them lie down on your lap.
4. Put the medicine in the ear: Put the amount (number of drops) of medicine into the ear canal as prescribed by the doctor.
5. Wait a while: Turn the medicine side up and wait for about 5 minutes . This will allow the medicine to penetrate deep into the ear and stay in place.
6. Place a cotton ball (if necessary): To stop the medicine from flowing out, soak a clean cotton ball in this medicine and gently place it near the opening of the ear canal. But do not leave it for more than 5-10 minutes . Then remove it.
7. Keep the dropper clean: Do not let the tip of the dropper touch your ear, fingertips, or anywhere else . Doing so can introduce germs into the bottle. Also, do not wash the dropper after use. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
To remove ear wax...
If you are using this medicine to remove earwax, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to do this. You may be told to leave the medicine on for a few days and then come back to the clinic for ear syringing.
Things to be careful about when using and side effects
This medicine is usually given for short-term use. Ask your doctor before using it for more than a few days.
| What to pay attention to | Description |
|---|---|
| The condition is not improving. | If the earache does not subside or worsens after using the medicine for 2-3 days, tell your doctor immediately. |
| Fluid draining from the ear | If any fluid (pus or blood) starts to come out of the ear while using the medicine, do not put the medicine back in. Seek medical advice immediately. |
| Overdose | If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. |
| If you miss a dose | If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling of the lips/tongue/face. |
| Changes in the ear | If the ear becomes inflamed, red, swollen, or painful after applying the medicine. |
How to store the medicine?
The effectiveness of medicines depends on how they are stored properly.
- Keep away from children: This is very important. Keep it in a place where children cannot easily reach it.
- Store at room temperature: Protect from excessive heat and light. That means don't store it near a stove or window. And don't put it in the fridge.
- Check the expiration date: Throw away any remaining medicine 6 months after opening the bottle or after the expiration date stated on the bottle.
This medicine is for you only. Do not share this medicine with others without your doctor's advice, even if someone else has the same symptoms as you.
Take-Home Message
- Antipyrine; Benzocaine ear drops are used to relieve minor earaches and earwax.
- Do not use this medicine if there is fluid draining from the ear or if you suspect that the eardrum is perforated.
- Before using the medicine, be sure to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and allergies.
- Be very careful about cleanliness when applying the medicine. Do not let the tip of the dropper touch anything.
- If symptoms do not improve within a few days or if new symptoms such as itching, burning, or swelling appear, see a doctor immediately.
- Use this medicine only on the recommendation of a doctor.
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