Lloydspharmacy.com Health - How to use your ear drops

Written by Helen Marshall, pharmacist

Ear drops are a sterile solution or suspension of medicine. They are administered into the ear to produce a local effect directly on the outer ear canal.

How to use your ear drops

If your ear drops are a suspension, the label will remind you to shake the bottle before using the drops.
Wash your hands.
Sit in front of a mirror so you can see what you are doing.
Take the lid off the bottle.
Tip your head to one side or lie on your side so that the affected ear is facing upwards.
Gently pull the ear lobe away from your neck.
Hold the bottle or dropper over the ear opening and gently squeeze the correct number of drops into your ear.
Keep your head tipped or stay lying on your side for a few minutes to let the drops spread into the ear canal.
Wipe away any excess liquid with a clean tissue.
Repeat this procedure for the other ear if your doctor or pharmacist has advised you to do this.
Replace the lid on the bottle.
Take care not to touch the tip of the bottle or dropper with your fingers. If the dropper is separate don't put it down on any surface.

Other useful advice

You may find it easier for someone else to put your ear drops in for you.
Try not to get water in your ear while you are using your ear drops. Take care when showering and washing your hair. You shouldn't go swimming until your course of treatment is completed.
Do not share ear drops with other people.
EXPIRY: never use your ear drops after the expiry date as they may be contaminated with dirt or bacteria. Ear drops should be thrown away four weeks after opening. Follow the printed instructions given with your drops. Write the date you open your ear drops on the bottle so you know when to throw them away.
Certain ear drops must not be used if your eardrum is, or may be, perforated. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if this is the case.
Always use the drops according to the printed label or as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you accidentally use more than you were supposed to.
Once you have finished the treatment course, carefully dispose of any leftover drops, or return them to your pharmacist for disposal.
Ear drops should only be used in the ears and must not to be taken by mouth.
Always keep medicines out of the reach of children.

Last updated 14.01.2009