Care Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops (10ml)

Product Summary

• Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops are used to soften dry or hardened ear wax.
• Suitable for adults, the elderly and children over 5 years.
• Children under 5 should receive direct medical supervision.

Directions

• The ear drops come ready for use with a separate dropper.
• Tilt the head sideways with the affected ear facing upwards.
• Without touching the ear with the dropper, drop 3 to 4 drops into the ear and massage around the outside of the ear.
• Keep the head tilted for a few minutes to let the drops reach the eardrum then plug the ear lightly with cotton wool to prevent leakage.
• Use the drops twice a day for up to 7 days. However, if symptoms do not improve after 5 days of use, seek medical advice.

Ingredients

• Active ingredient: Sodium Bicarbonate BP 5% w/v (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate 5% w/v).
• Also contains Glycerol (E422), Purified Water and Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol (Preservative).

Warnings and Restrictions

• Do not use if you have a perforated (burst) eardrum, or if you have recently had ear surgery.
• Do not use if you are using any other ear products, including herbal or complementary medicines.
• Do not swallow.
• Please consult your pharmacist or doctor before using this medicine if you are currently pregnant, likely to get pregnant or are breastfeeding.
• Please consult your pharmacist or doctor if you are currently taking any other medicines, as this may cause an interaction.
• If you think you may be allergic to any of the ingredients contained in this medicine, please seek medical advice before using it.

Please speak to your pharmacist if you are taking any other medications, especially for treating ear problems.

Storage

Discard 28 days after first opening.

Dispose of used packaging in line with local requirements.

Keep in original carton.

Do not freeze.

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Other information

Adverse incidents should be reported on 01484 848164, at thorntonross@medinformation.co.uk or alternatively at mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard

Pharmacist FAQs Answered

How can I tell whether I need eardrops?

The most frequent indicators of earwax build-up are muffled hearing, clogged or plugged ear feeling, slight pain, or even recurring dizziness that comes and goes. Ringing (tinnitus) and "some also feel crackling" sound. You might find your hearing aids don't work as well if you wear them. You can also try ear drops like sodium bicarbonate if you have had these symptoms before and have been told they were due to wax. It is important to know the difference between earache and ear infections. If you also have pain, discharge, fever, or recent ear surgery, it would be wise to consult your GP or pharmacist before using any treatment.

How do I use Care Sodium Bicarbonate eardrops?

To put drops, tilt your head so the ear to be treated is uppermost, and then put in 3-4 drops slowly using the dropper without touching your ear with it. Gently rub the area in front of the ear, and hold your head in this position for a few minutes to let the drops penetrate deeper. Plugging the ear gently with cotton wool will stop the leakage. Twice daily for a period not exceeding 7 days. If your symptoms haven't cleared after 5 days, talk to a health professional - you may need your ears looked at or syringed by a nurse or doctor.

What can I expect with Care Sodium Bicarbonate eardrops?

Yes, some individuals have a mild fizzing or bubbling sensation, particularly after the initial few uses. This is normal and means the drops are beginning to dissolve hardened wax. You may get an initial sense of the blockage if the wax does soften but isn't cleared yet. It will sort itself out in a few days. Avoid the urge to use cotton buds-they can push the wax deeper or hurt your ear canal.

Is Care Sodium Bicarbonate eardrops for everyone?

They're usually safe for adults and children aged five or over, but not if you have a perforated (burst) eardrum, previous ear surgery, or a current ear infection. Do not use it in conjunction with other ear treatments unless instructed otherwise. Pregnant or breastfeeding? It is ordinarily safe, but always ask first from your GP or pharmacist, particularly if you are taking different medicines. If unsure about any symptoms or medical conditions, please consult before treatment.

Can Sodium Bicarbonate ear drops have side effects or interact with drugs?

There's no recognised interaction with most medications taken orally or applied elsewhere on the body. But if you're taking drugs that act upon your ears or hearing, or if you're using other drops in the ears, it is best to ask your pharmacist. Most people can tolerate the drops, but if you experience burning, itching, swelling, or pain, stop use and see a doctor — these could be signs of an allergic reaction or irritation. Always read the label, and don't use it if you are allergic to any ingredients.