From the Guidelines
For ear canal itching, over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrocortisone 1% or combination products like Cortisporin (hydrocortisone, neomycin, polymyxin B) can provide relief, as stated in the clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa 1. To use these ear drops effectively, apply 3-4 drops into the affected ear canal 2-3 times daily for up to 7 days. Before application, warm the bottle in your hands to body temperature and tilt your head with the affected ear facing up. After applying, remain in this position for 2-3 minutes to allow the drops to penetrate, as recommended in the clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa executive summary 1. Some key points to consider when using ear drops for ear canal itching include:
- If you have a perforated eardrum, avoid using these drops and consult a healthcare provider, as advised in the clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa 1.
- Ear itching is often caused by excessive dryness, eczema, or mild infections, as discussed in the clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa 1.
- If symptoms persist beyond a week, worsen, or are accompanied by pain, discharge, or hearing changes, seek medical attention, as recommended in the clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa 1.
- Never insert objects into your ear canal to scratch the itch as this can damage the delicate skin and worsen symptoms, as warned in the clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa executive summary 1. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to use the ear drops as directed to ensure effective relief from ear canal itching. Additionally, if you experience any side effects or concerns, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance, as emphasized in the clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
For an Ear Canal Infection (“Swimmer’s Ear”): The person receiving ofloxacin otic solution should lie on his/her side with the infected ear up Patients (13 and older) should have 10 drops of ofloxacin otic solution put into the infected ear. Pediatric patients under 13 should have 5 drops put into the infected ear. In patients with an Ear Canal Infection (“Swimmer’s Ear”), ofloxacin otic solution ear drops should be given once daily at about the same time each day (for example, 8 AM or 8 PM) in each infected ear unless the doctor has instructed otherwise The ofloxacin otic solution can be used for ear canal itching caused by an ear canal infection, with the following dosage:
- 10 drops for patients 13 and older, once daily
- 5 drops for pediatric patients under 13, once daily 2
From the Research
Ear Drops for Ear Canal Itching
- Ear canal itching can be a symptom of otitis externa, a condition causing inflammation of the outer ear canal 3, 4.
- The most characteristic symptoms of otitis externa include discomfort, erythema, and swelling of the canal with variable discharge 3.
- Treatment options for otitis externa include topical antibiotics, antiseptics, steroids, and non-pharmaceuticals 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Studies have shown that antiseptic, steroid, and antibiotic monotherapies are all effective for the management of acute otitis externa 4.
- Ciprofloxacin otic solution has been found to be a useful and effective agent in the local therapy of otitis externa 5, 7.
- Ofloxacin otic is also effective in curing otitis externa in children and has the advantage of less frequent dosing and no ototoxicity 6.
- Topical solutions of 2 percent acetic acid combined with hydrocortisone for inflammation can be an effective treatment for otitis externa and can also be used as a prophylactic measure 3.
Treatment Options
- Ciprofloxacin 0.2% solution has been compared to other therapeutic options and found to be statistically equivalent in terms of cure rate and microbiological eradication 7.
- A combination of polymyxin B, neomycin sulfate, and hydrocortisone (PNH) is also a common treatment option for otitis externa 6, 7.
- Antiseptics and steroids can be used as alternative treatment options for otitis externa, especially in cases where antibiotics are not effective or not recommended 4.