Key points about Cerumol ear drops

  • Cerumol ear drops are used for earwax build-up, to soften and remove a build-up of hardened ear wax.
  • Cerumol are ear drops that contain arachis oil (peanut oil) and chlorobutanol.
  • Find out how to use it safely and possible side effects.
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Cerumol are ear drops that contain arachis oil (peanut oil) and chlorobutanol. It is used for earwax build-up, to soften and remove a build-up of hardened ear wax. Read more about earwax build-up

Cerumol should not be used if you have any of the following
  • A damaged or perforated (burst) ear drum.
  • A sore or inflamed ear.
  • An ear infection or any other ear problem such as itching or eczema.
  • An allergy to peanuts, soy or any ingredients of the drops.

Put about 5 drops into your ear canal. After that, put 2–3 drops into your ear canal twice a day for 3–4 days, if needed.

  • Prepare a small pad of cotton wool the size of your thumbnail.
  • Lie or sit down and tilt your head to the side.
  • Use the dropper to put 5 drops into your ear canal. Do not push the dropper into your ear.
  • As the drops enter your ear you may experience a harmless tingling sensation.
  • Moisten the small pad of cotton wool with Cerumol or smear with petroleum jelly. 
  • Place the cotton wool pad in your ear but do not push it too far into your ear canal. This helps to keep the liquid in your ear canal.
  • Remove the pad after 1 hour or the next morning.
  • Repeat twice a day for 3 days if needed.
  • The loosened wax usually comes out on its own, but if any wax remains, see your doctor. 
  • Do not use for longer than 3 days without contacting your doctor.
  • If you have any difficulty with this or any concerns, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Read more about how to apply ear drops.

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Credits: Sandra Ponen, Pharmacist, Healthify He Puna Waiora. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.

Reviewed by: Angela Lambie, Pharmacist, Auckland

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