Olive Oil Eardrop
2026/07/07
Olive Oil eardrops are commonly used for ear wax impaction, which is the buildup and blockage of the ear canal. This may cause a feeling of pressure in the ear, dizziness, partial hearing of certain tones, ringing in the ears, and ear discomfort. However, pain is not a usual symptom of ear wax buildup and blockage.
There are other common medications used for ear wax impaction such as Mineral oil ear drops, Docusate sodium ear drops, Hydrogen peroxide ear drops, Glycerol ear drops, and Saline solution.
Proper use of ear drop:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Gently shake the bottle before using.
- Tilt your head OR lie on your side so that the affected ear is facing upwards.
- Place the dropper tip just above your ear canal (entrance of the ear) and pull the ear as instructed below. Avoid touching the ear with the dropper tip.
- For children under 3 years old: Gently pull the lower ear DOWNWARD and backward.
- For children over 3 years old and adults: Gently pull the upper ear UPWARD and backward.
- Then, apply the prescribed number of drops in the ear.
- Gently massage the small skin flap over the ear to facilitate the flow of drops into the ear canal (tragal massage).
- Keep your ear tilted or remain in the lying position for a few minutes so that no medicine leaks out of the ear.
- Replace the cap of the bottle immediately after use.
- Tissue can be used to wipe excess fluids on the external part of the ear. Avoid the use of cotton bud and object for mechanical ear wax removal.
If you forget to use a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Then use your next dose at the usual time. Do not use two doses to make up for the missed dose.
Although ear wax can be treated without a doctor’s consultation, there are times where the condition might be more serious.
You should not treat ear wax impaction by yourself if you have a history of perforated eardrums or have had ear surgery before.
The most common side effects are itching and redness of the ear. These symptoms are usually mild and will subside after some time. Check with your healthcare professional if these conditions are severe or do not improve.
If your condition does not get better after 5 days of treatment with ear drops or gets worse, you should see a doctor. You should also see a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Abnormal ear discharge e.g. blood or pus
- Severe, sharp ear pain
- Severe itch in ear
- Dizziness or vertigo
Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Record the date opened on the container. Throw it away immediately once contaminated or after reaching its in-use shelf life as recommended by the manufacturer.
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.
Disclaimer:
- Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately.
- The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
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