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Cerumenolytic

Urea hydrogen peroxide

Brand names: Otex, Earex

Urea hydrogen peroxide ear drops are a cerumenolytic used to soften and help disperse ear wax in the external ear canal.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

On contact with cerumen it releases oxygen and effervesces, mechanically breaking up and loosening the wax to aid its removal.

Prescribing in practice

  • It should not be used if the eardrum is perforated or if there is ear discharge suggesting infection, without seeking advice first.
  • Transient effervescence, bubbling sensation or mild irritation in the ear is expected during use.
  • It softens wax and does not treat ear infection.

Monitoring

No formal monitoring is required; review if wax-related hearing loss or discomfort persists after a reasonable course.

Counselling the patient

  • You may feel bubbling or fizzing in the ear, which is normal.
  • Do not use if you have a known hole in the eardrum or ear discharge.
  • Avoid cotton buds and seek advice if you develop ear pain.

Evidence & guidelines

Use as a wax-softening agent reflects standard practice consistent with NICE guidance on ear wax management.

Reference: NICE CG98; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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