Understanding Rexall Ear Drops
Ear drops are medicated liquids that are administered into the ear canal to treat various ear conditions. Rexall is a popular brand of over-the-counter ear drops that can be purchased without a prescription. Rexall ear drops come in several formulations to provide relief from common ear problems like swimmer's ear, ear wax buildup, and ear infections.
Some of the key facts to know about Rexall ear drops include:
- Active Ingredients - Rexall ear drops contain active ingredients like acetic acid, aluminum acetate, carbamide peroxide, and glycerin to treat different ear conditions.
- Types of Ear Drops - Major formulations offered under the Rexall brand include Swimmer's Ear Relief Ear Drops, Ear Wax Removal Drops, Ear Pain Relief Ear Drops.
- How to Use - Rexall ear drops should be used as directed on the package labeling. Typically 2-3 drops are instilled into the affected ear 2-3 times daily.
- Safety Tips - Do not use ear drops if the eardrum is perforated. Discontinue use if irritation or pain persists. Not recommended for children under 2 years old without medical advice.
- Where to Buy - Rexall ear drops can be found in major retail pharmacies, grocery stores, online marketplaces like Amazon, and directly from the Rexall website.
Understanding the key features and proper usage of Rexall ear drops can help consumers use them effectively to find relief from common ear discomforts.
Types of Rexall Ear Drops
Rexall offers ear drops in several formulations to provide targeted relief for some of the most common ear problems that affect children and adults. Some of the main types of Rexall ear drops include:
Swimmer's Ear Relief Ear Drops
Rexall Swimmer's Ear Relief Ear Drops use acetic acid as the active ingredient to help treat swimmer's ear. Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear canal typically caused by water trapped in the ear after swimming. The acetic acid in the ear drops helps restore the natural acidity of the ear canal and prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause swimmer's ear infections.
Ear Wax Removal Drops
Ear wax buildup is another common problem that can cause ear pain, discomfort, and temporary hearing loss. Rexall Ear Wax Removal Drops use carbamide peroxide 6.5% as the active ingredient to help break up and dissolve excess ear wax. This helps clear ear wax blockages gently without the need for flushing or irrigation.
Earache Relief Ear Drops
For painful earaches due to colds, flu, or infections, Rexall offers Earache Relief Ear Drops. These contain phenazone and benzocaine as the active ingredients to provide a combination of pain relief, anti-inflammatory action, and local anesthetic effects to soothe ear pain and discomfort.
EasyDrops for Dry, Irritated Ears
Rexall EasyDrops are formulated with glycerin to provide moisturizing relief for minor ear irritations caused by dryness. The glycerin helps lubricate the ear canal and prevent flaky buildup and discomfort.
Active Ingredients in Rexall Ear Drops
The different formulations of Rexall ear drops rely on select active ingredients that provide targeted ear relief capabilities. Some of the main active ingredients found in Rexall ear drop products include:
Acetic Acid
Acetic acid is the main active component in Rexall Swimmer's Ear Relief drops. At 2% concentration, the acetic acid helps restore the proper pH levels in the ear canal to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. This helps treat swimmer's ear infections.
Carbamide Peroxide
Carbamide peroxide 6.5% is used in the Rexall Ear Wax Removal drops. It works as a chemical ear wax remover by breaking up and dissolving built-up ear wax.
Phenazone and Benzocaine
The Rexall Earache Relief drops use a combination of phenazone (an analgesic and anti-inflammatory) and benzocaine (a local anesthetic) to provide multiple types of pain relief for sore, irritated ears.
Glycerin
Glycerin acts as a moisturizer and lubricant in the EasyDrops for Dry, Irritated Ears. It prevents dryness and flaky buildup in the ear canal.
Aluminum Acetate
Some formulations contain aluminum acetate, which can help relieve symptoms of irritation, inflammation, and swelling.
Proper Use of Rexall Ear Drops
To get the most benefit from Rexall ear drops, it is important to use them correctly:
- Wash hands before use
- Tilt head sideways and gently pull outer ear up and back
- For adults, instill 2-3 drops into the affected ear
- Keep head tilted for 1-2 minutes to allow drops to spread
- Use fingers to gently press and release tragus of ear to help drops penetrate
- Use drops 2-3 times daily or as directed on packaging
- Do not use drops if eardrum is perforated
- Stop use and ask a doctor if :
- Ear pain persists or worsens
- Irritation, rash, or swelling develops
- Hearing loss, drainage, or other changes occur
For best results, lie down with affected ear facing up when instilling drops. This helps the medication spread thoroughly into the ear canal. Keeping the head tilted for 1-2 minutes prevents drops from draining out right away.
Are Rexall Ear Drops Safe?
When used as directed, Rexall ear drops are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, some precautions apply:
- Do not use ear drops if the eardrum is perforated
- Consult a doctor before use in children under age 2
- Discontinue use if pain, irritation, changes in hearing occur
- Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days unless directed by doctor
- Avoid contact with eyes as it may cause irritation
- Flushing ears with water after use is not recommended
- Consult doctor if symptoms do not improve after 7 days of use
Those with a known allergy or sensitivity to any of the ingredients should not use Rexall ear drops. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should ask a doctor before use. Ear drops should be kept out of reach of children.
When to See a Doctor
While Rexall ear drops can provide relief for minor ear problems, seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Sudden hearing loss, ringing, or drainage from the ear
- Severe, worsening, or persistent pain
- Headaches, nausea, vertigo along with ear symptoms
- Pus or bloody discharge draining from the ear
- Possible foreign object lodged in ear canal
- Torn or perforated eardrum
These may indicate a more serious ear injury or infection that requires prompt
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.