From the Research
There is no evidence that diuretics like furosemide (loop diuretic) or hydrochlorothiazide (thiazide diuretic) increase the density of cerumen (earwax). While diuretics work by increasing the excretion of water and salts from the body through the kidneys, they do not have a direct effect on cerumen production or composition. Cerumen is produced by specialized glands in the ear canal (ceruminous and sebaceous glands) and consists primarily of shed skin cells, fatty acids, alcohols, squalene, and cholesterol. The production and consistency of earwax is primarily determined by genetics, age, and environmental factors rather than systemic medications like diuretics.
Some key points to consider:
- Diuretics, such as loop diuretics (e.g. furosemide) or thiazide diuretics (e.g. hydrochlorothiazide), have been extensively studied for their effects on the body, but none of these studies have found a link between diuretic use and increased density of cerumen 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The mechanism of action of diuretics involves inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the renal tubules, resulting in increased urinary sodium and water excretion, but this does not affect cerumen production or composition 4.
- Cerumen production is a complex process influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, age, and environmental factors, and is not directly affected by systemic medications like diuretics.
- If you're experiencing changes in earwax consistency while taking diuretics, it's likely due to other factors and should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
It's worth noting that the most recent and highest quality study on diuretics, published in 2022, does not mention any effect of diuretics on cerumen density or production 5. Therefore, based on the current evidence, diuretics are not likely to increase the density of cerumen.