What are the usage instructions for Debrox (carbamide peroxide) ear drops?

Debrox Usage Instructions

For adults and children over 12 years, tilt head sideways, place 5-10 drops into the ear canal, keep head tilted for several minutes (or place cotton in ear), and use twice daily for up to 4 days. 1

Step-by-Step Administration Technique

Preparation and Positioning

• Have someone else administer the drops if possible, as only 40% of patients who self-administer do so correctly during the first 3 days 2
• Lie down with the affected ear facing upward to ensure proper penetration 3, 2
• The tip of the applicator should not enter the ear canal 1

Drop Application

• Instill 5-10 drops into the ear canal (enough to fill it completely) 1
• Stay in this position for 3-5 minutes to allow adequate penetration—use a timer to measure the time accurately 3, 2
• A gentle to-and-fro movement of the ear or pressing with an in/out movement on the tragus (small piece of cartilage in front of the ear) can help distribute the medication 3, 2

After Application

• After the waiting period, sit up and wipe off any excess drops 3, 2
• Any wax remaining after treatment may be removed by gently flushing the ear with warm water using a soft rubber bulb ear syringe 1

Treatment Duration and Frequency

• Use twice daily for up to 4 days if needed, or as directed by a doctor 1
• The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery guidelines support this duration for cerumenolytic agents 3

Important Precautions During Treatment

• Keep the ear dry while using ear drops 3, 2
• Do not clean the ear yourself, as the ear canal is tender and you could damage it or the eardrum 3, 2
• Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, including cotton-tipped swabs 2, 4
• Cover the ear canal opening with an earplug or cotton with petroleum jelly before showering or hair washing 2, 4

When to Seek Additional Help

• If drops do not easily run into the ear canal, you may need to have the ear canal cleaned by your clinician or have a wick placed to help medication delivery 3, 2
• If a wick is placed, it may fall out on its own (a good sign indicating reduced inflammation)—do not remove it yourself unless instructed 3, 2, 4

Special Populations

• Children under 12 years: consult a doctor before use 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Missing the ear canal entirely due to poor self-administration technique—this is why having assistance is strongly recommended 2
• Not waiting the full 3-5 minutes in position, which prevents adequate penetration of the medication 3, 2
• Attempting to remove wax yourself with instruments, which can cause trauma 3, 2

Adverse Effects

• Debrox (carbamide peroxide) is generally safe and well tolerated 3
• Some patients may experience local irritation or discomfort, though these are rare and mild 2, 5
• If you taste the eardrops, it may indicate a perforation in the eardrum—inform your doctor if this occurs 2, 4