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Genuine medication
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Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops
What are Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops?
Sodium bicarbonate ear drops are used to soften and help remove earwax build-up. The active ingredient sodium bicarbonate interacts with the earwax (cerumen). The sodium bicarbonate breaks down the components of earwax, which is composed of oils, dead skin cells, and other debris and actively dissolves the wax.
How the drops work
They work by breaking down the components of earwax, which is composed of oils, dead skin cells, and other debris and actively dissolve the wax. They are sometimes preferred to olive oil drops as they can provide a quicker, more effective method for wax removal but they should only be used for a week.
How to use Sodium Bicarbonate ear drops
Using the ear drops is simple and straightfoward:
- If the drops feel too cold, you can warm them up by placing the bottle in warm water for a few minutes, then test the drop's temperature on your wrist to ensure it is not too hot. This can make applying the drops more comfortable.
- Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up. This helps the drops to stay in the ear and penetrate the wax.
- Place a towel under your head to catch any drips.
- Gently pull the outer ear back and up to straighten the ear canal. Carefully place 3-5 drops of into the ear canal.
- Gently massage the area in front of the ear to help the drops penetrate the earwax.
- Remain lying on your side for about 5-10 minutes to allow the drops to penetrate and soften the earwax. Wipe away any surplus with a tissue.
- Do this once or twice a day for a few days until the earwax softens and can be naturally expelled or easily removed.
Side effects
There are no known side effects however the symptoms of built up ear wax may get worse before it improves as the drops loosen the ear wax.
Interactions
There are no known interactions and is safe to use with any medications.
Alternatives
There are other alternatives, if you find the drops do not work for you:
- Otex Express Ear Drops
- Olive Oil Ear Drops
- In cases of severe earwax build-up, professional ear cleaning by a healthcare provider may be necessary. We do offer this service in-store.
More ear wax build-up help
If you would like more information on ear wax build-up you can find more information: NHS - Ear wax build-up help
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use Sodium Bicarbonate ear drops while pregnant?
Yes, they are safe to use during pregnancy.
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Can you buy Sodium Bicarbonate ear drops over the counter?
Yes they can be bought over the counter without having to do a consultation.
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How often should I use Sodium Bicarbonate ear drops?
You can use them once or twice a day for a maximum of a week. If there is no improvement after a week contact a healthcare professional for further advice.
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Do Sodium Bicarbonate ear drops expire?
Yes, always check the expiry date of any medicines you are taking before you take them, the expiry date refers the end of the month. Do not use the drops 28 days after opening.
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Can Sodium Bicarbonate ear drops be used in children?
Only use them under the direction of a doctor as children should not usually suffer from ear wax buildup.
