Ear drops are generally safe when used properly.
They are available as eitherover-the-counter medicationsor as prescription drugs, depending on what theyre for.
Youll want to follow the instructions exactly.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
Some of the more common uses and types of ear drops include:
Corticosteroid ear drops also are available.
They are used to treat ear inflammation.
How to Use Ear Drops
Before using ear drops, give the product instructions a thorough read.
If theyre not clear, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for directions.
Look over the list of possible side effects.
Check the expiration date and throw away expired drops.
Also, throw them out if they appear to be contaminated.
Always wash your hands with soap and water before using ear drops.
Temperature Matters
Ear drops are best used at room temperature.
If theyre too cold or hot, they can make you feel dizzy and disoriented.
Carry cold drops in your pants pocket for 30 minutes to bring up the temperature.
The procedure is slightly different because childrens ear canals are shorter and have a more horizontal angle.
To safely give them drops:
For an infant, try swaddling them to keep them still.
Toddlers may need to be cradled with their arms and legs fully restrained.
A second set of hands can help.
When giving ear drops to a child, a second adult may be necessary.
Side Effects
The ear is a delicate structure.
It doesnt always respond well to medications.
If you have any abnormal reactions to the drops, call your healthcare provider.
It can allow potentially damaging chemicals into the middle ear.
This includes antibiotic ear drops for an infection.
Symptoms of a rupture are:
See your healthcare provider if you think an eardrum is ruptured.
And dont put anything in your ear until its been checked out.
In most cases, the eardrum will repair itself within a matter of days.
Summary
Ear drops are common treatments for ear-related problems.
you might give them to yourself but it may be easier with help.
When giving ear drops to a child, have two adults present if possible.
That way, one can hold the child still while the other gives them the drops.
Read the instructions, check the expiration date, and wash your hands well before using the drops.
Side effects, allergic reactions, and anaphylaxis are possible.
Always get emergency medical care for a severe allergic reaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Carbamide peroxide drops are a water-based treatment commonly used to reduce ear wax buildup.
These drops are generally safe and effective when used as directed, but check with your healthcare provider first.
Do not use these or other ear drops if you have a ruptured eardrum or ear discharge.
Yes, but it depends on the pop in.
Antibiotic drops are for bacterial infections, not viral or fungal infections.
Fungal ear infections (otomycosis) require antifungal medications such as clotrimazole.
National Health Service.Betamethasone for eyes, ears and nose.
National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Ruptured eardrum.
2018;7(7):CD012171.
doi:10.1002/14651858.CD012171.pub2
Haq M, Deshmukh P.Review of recurrent otomycosis and clotrimazole in its treatment.Cureus.
2022;14(10):e30098.
doi:10.7759/cureus.30098
NPS MedicineWise.Ciloxan 0.3% ear drops.
