DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Antipyrine; Benzocaine

March 21, 2017

Antipyrine, Benzocaine Otic drops, solution

What is this medicine?

ANTIPYRINE; BENZOCAINE (an tee PYE reen; BEN zoe kane) relieves minor ear pain and itching. It may also be used to remove excessive ear wax.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • ear discharge

  • perforated eardrum

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to antipyrine, benzocaine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the outer ear canal. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions carefully. Wash hands before and after use. The solution may be warmed by holding the bottle in the hand for 1 to 2 minutes. Lie with the affected ear facing upward. Fill ear canal with the solution. After the drops are instilled, remain lying with the affected ear upward for 5 minutes to help the drops stay in the ear canal. A cotton pledget moistened with medicine may be gently inserted at the ear opening for no longer than 5 to 10 minutes to ensure retention. Repeat, if necessary, for the opposite ear. Do not touch the tip of the dropper to the ear, fingertips, or other surface. Do not rinse the dropper after use.

If using for ear wax removal, your doctor or health care professional will tell you how to use this medicine.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other ear products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

This medicine is not for long term use. Do not use for more than a few days without checking with your doctor or health care professional. Do not use if there is any discharge from the ear. Contact your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better within a few days or if you notice burning, redness, itching or swelling.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • burning, redness, swelling, or pain in the ear

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and heat. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine 6 months after the dropper is first placed in the solution or after the expiration date, whichever comes first.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert